South African media powerhouse, choreographer, and radio host Somizi Mhlongo has taken fans on a deeply emotional trip down memory lane, reflecting on a golden career milestone shared with his late best friend and the undisputed “Queen of Kwaito,” Lebo Mathosa.
The beloved Idols SA judge sparked a wave of nostalgia across Mzansi after stumbling upon a classic throwback photo on TikTok, captured during the height of their artistic partnership in the mid-2000s.
The “Awu Dede” Era: A Defining Career Milestone
The poignant image captures Somizi and Lebo standing side-by-side at the prestigious Channel O Spirit of Africa Music Video Awards circa 2005/2006. That unforgettable night, Somizi walked away with the coveted Best Choreography award for his explosive, era-defining work on Mathosa’s massive dance anthem, Awu Dede.
Reflecting on his journey and the heartbreaking reality of what followed, Somizi shared:
“Wow I bumped into this pic on TikTok. This was 2005/6 when I won best choreography in a music video for awudede by Lebo Mathosa at the Chanel O awards. Naaaah l’ve really earned my stripes. And little did we know that in less than a year from this day my bestie would depart.”
Tragically, just months after celebrating their joint creative triumph, the music industry was shattered when Lebo Mathosa passed away on 23 October 2006 at the age of 29 following a devastating car accident on the N3 highway in Germiston.
Keeping the Flame Alive: From Iconic Beats to Red Carpet Fashion
Lebo Mathosa’s unapologetic, bold, and fearless energy remains a blueprint for modern South African performance, and Somizi has made it a personal mission to ensure her legacy is never forgotten.
Earlier this year at the 2026 Metro FM Awards, which carried the theme “Icon-Inspired Music Excellence,” Somizi paid a stunning sartorial tribute to his late bestie. He custom-designed a breathtaking, show-stopping red carpet gown for rising music star Liyema Pantsi.
Debuting the creation, Liyema expressed the immense pride she felt stepping into that legendary energy:
“For me, there was only one choice… Lebo Mathosa. She was fearless, bold and unapologetic. Thank you to Somizi for creating a design that made me feel powerful and confident throughout the evening.”
Through viral TikTok throwbacks, timeless choreography, and high-fashion tributes, the spirit of the Queen of Kwaito continues to reign supreme in Mzansi’s entertainment landscape.
