Polokwane – Lehlogonolo Chauke, popularly known as Shebeshxt, has finally broken his silence about the heartbreaking car accident that took the life of his nine-year-old daughter, Onthatile Chauke, in June. The accident, which took place on the R37 road near Smelters Mine in Limpopo, left Shebeshxt severely injured and almost pushed him to quit his music career.
The accident occurred when Shebeshxt’s Volkswagen Polo GTI collided with a truck, causing his car to overturn. Onthatile tragically died at the scene, while Shebeshxt spent weeks in the hospital recovering from his injuries. A female passenger in the car sustained minor injuries. Since the incident, Shebeshxt has been relatively quiet, choosing to stay out of the public eye while he grieved.
However, Shebeshxt finally spoke out this week during the launch of his upcoming one-man show, set to take place on Saturday, 21 September, at the Polokwane Rugby Fields. In his emotional address, Shebeshxt revealed how his daughter’s death almost led him to give up on music altogether.
“She was the reason I wanted to change my life. I wanted to leave my old ways of doing crime and be a better person for her,” he said. “But now, I know she might not be here in person, but she’s a spirit. I’ll continue being a better person, not just for my fans, but for her too.”
Shebeshxt explained that he had chosen music as a way to turn his life around, leaving behind a troubled past to become a positive role model for his daughter. The tragedy, however, brought him to the brink of abandoning his passion. “I had decided to do music because I wanted to change my life and make an honest living,” he added, emphasizing the significant role his daughter played in his transformation.
Despite his immense grief, Shebeshxt has found the strength to continue his music career, driven by the memory of Onthatile and his commitment to becoming a better person. He remains determined to honor her legacy through his art.
Shebeshxt also took the opportunity to address rumors circulating about the circumstances of the accident. There were allegations that the rapper was intoxicated at the time of the crash, but he vehemently denied these claims. “People said I was intoxicated, but on that night, I didn’t even touch any alcohol. I know I always get judged, but I wonder what made people think I had consumed alcohol and continue peddling lies,” he stated.
Support for Shebeshxt has poured in from fans and fellow musicians, including singer and songwriter King Monada, who attended the launch of Shebeshxt’s show. King Monada encouraged the grieving musician, saying, “You’re big, my brother, keep it that way. I want you to know you can’t please everyone. Don’t take it to your head when people tell you you’re a big artist.”
Shebeshxt’s one-man show, titled “Shebeshxt: The Return,” is being hosted by the Makoro Foundation, led by Polokwane Mayor John Mpe. The foundation, alongside various partners, is supporting the rapper as he prepares for his highly anticipated return to the stage.
Shebeshxt’s resilience and dedication to his craft, despite personal tragedy, highlight his determination to honor his daughter’s memory and inspire others through his music.