South African hip-hop pioneer DJ Dimplez has passed away.
The news was announced in a statement released by the family yesterday. "It is with deep sadness that the Mooi family announces the untimely passing of Boitumelo Athiel Mooi, popularly known as DJ Dimplez," they confirmed to Channel24. Several close sources also confirmed the news.
The award-winning DJ, real name Tumi Mooi, reportedly died of a sudden brain haemorrhage. Circumstances surrounding his death remain unknown.
The news marks another great loss for the South African hip hop scene. On Friday, Mooi attended the memorial service of rapper Riky Rick, who passed away tragically on 23 February.
Much like Riky, Dimplez was a much-loved and well-respected talent in the local music industry. His plethora of hit songs include Way Up featuring Cassper Nyovest and JR, Amantombazane, and The Don featuring Kuli Chana and Gemini Major.
As the news broke last night, tributes flooded social media as fans and fellow celebrities expressed their shock and dismay.
Oh Tumi… such a sweet, sweet soul. 🕊![CDATA[]]>🙏![CDATA[]]>🏽![CDATA[]]>😭
— Bonang Matheba 👑 (@Bonang) March 6, 2022
What an amazing human being. Always had time for people. Always friendly. Rest in peace my friend Dimplez 💔
— I have an MBA degree! (@JackDevero) March 6, 2022
Aw man… 💔![CDATA[]]>💔![CDATA[]]>💔![CDATA[]]>💔 no wayz!!!
— Pearl Thusi (@PearlThusi) March 6, 2022
You were an instrumental part of many of our best days and best memories. 🥺 My heart breaks for your family, for Milkshake & Vigi and all your friends in DJ fraternity and beyond. Rest easy Tumi. 🕯![CDATA[]]>🙏![CDATA[]]>🏾 #RIPDJDimplez https://t.co/iZJQ690opc
— Hulisani Ravele (@HulisaniRavele) March 6, 2022
Rest In Peace DJ Dimplez💔![CDATA[]]>🕊 #RIPDJDimplez pic.twitter.com/Ct4vfQQYBl
— SlikourOnLife (@slikouron) March 6, 2022
SA hip hop fraternity lost Citi lyts, Riky Rick & DJ Dimplez in less than a month?💔
— RIP Makhado.❤️🕊 (@matabane_kabelo) March 6, 2022
Silently gave me so many huge opportunities even when I didn’t think I deserved them🙏![CDATA[]]>🏾 Forever grateful for DJ Dimplez ❤️🕊 Rest peacefully King, til we meet again❤️ pic.twitter.com/WO6au1gnD4
— I ❤️ INTERSTELLA (@IndigoStella_SA) March 6, 2022