This past weekend, the South African music scene was painted with memories of the late rapper Costa Titch, real name Costantinos Tsobanoglou, who would have celebrated his 30th birthday on January 26.
His mother Lara Langeveld delivered a touching tribute through social media, urging fans to keep his vibrant spirit alive in their hearts.
Titch passed away unexpectedly in March 2023 after he collapsed collapse during a performance at the Ultra Music Festival in Johannesburg.
His death was a massive loss not only for his family but for the countless fans who had come to love and admire his music. As he would have reached this milestone birthday, fans gathered nationwide, releasing green biodegradable balloons as a heartfelt homage to the influential artist.
“THE DAY IS HERE! Today, we honour the legacy of the one and only Costa Titch on what would have been his 30th birthday with the release of #HayiCosta!” his official Instagram account announced, coinciding the tribute with the release of his posthumous single, “Hayi Costa”.
Langeveld took to Instagram to post: “My dearest son, today we celebrate you and the incredible legacy you left behind. You would have been 30 today - a milestone filled with dreams and achievements we know you would have reached."
Her emotional message continued, emphasising the enduring impact of Costa’s life: “Though you’re no longer here with us, your light shines brighter than ever in our hearts and in the lives of those you’ve touched.”
In a touching sentiment, Langeveld encouraged fans to resonate with Titch’s principles by living with the same passion and love he had for life.
“We miss your laughter, your passion, and your vision. But we find comfort in knowing you are watching over us. You’re not gone - you’ve just moved to a heavenly stage, and we know you’re still dancing, still dreaming, still inspiring.”
Following the artist's tragic death, speculation arose surrounding the cause; initial reports suggested the possibility of epilepsy.
However, an autopsy released in May last year concluded that Titch died from significant heart strain, exacerbated by stress and fatigue.
The findings revealed that these factors led to an irregular heartbeat, triggering a seizure that ultimately took his life.
Titch first blossomed into the entertainment world as a dancer for South African hip-hop star Cassper Nyovest.
He later transitioned into rapping, leaving indelible marks on the amapiano genre with his energetic performances and hit tracks like “Big Flexa”.
His innovative use of African languages and dynamic dance routines not only broke stereotypes but also connected deeply with diverse audiences, embodying a fresh cultural revolution within the South African music industry.
As the late rapper's 30th birthday is commemorated by fans through music and shared memories, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and admirers.