SA mourns death of Black Cat Bones singer Kobus de Kock Jnr

De Kock Jnr, whose cause of death has not been officially confirmed but seems to be the result of a suicide, died aged 41. The Black Cat Bones guitarist André Kriel confirmed the news saying the band “will remember him for his sincerity, his love for his fellow man and his absolute passion for music.”

“This week is Fabian Sing’s birthday as we say goodbye to Kobus de Kock Jnr and I think of Fourie Smit. To all my sensitive artist friends, please don’t stay silent when all is dark and hopeless,” The Narrow singer Hanu de Jong said on Facebook, mentioning other South African music professionals who are reported to have committed suicide. “The darkness might act like a muse and is too often very familiar, but it needs to be acknowledged and let go. Grab a loved one or anyone you trust and tell them what you feel. It will get better! This is not the way it will always be!”

Many others also paid tribute to the late musician:

“A legend. An icon. Thank you for the music, Kobus de Kock Jnr,” Spotify Africa wrote on social media.

South Africa-based Mozambican musician Pedro Barbosa wrote: “You were angry on stage, but soft hearted outside the stage. I’m not going to ask why this happened. We all know why. I just hope you found your peace now my bud and I will remember you in the fondest craziest memories.”

Radio DJ Kerry-anne Allerston wrote: “I think Koobs knew how much he was loved but I’m not sure he knew just how phenomenal he was. How very talented. How many lives he changed and touched. He loved hard. He loved his beautiful twins so much. His family and friends. His band of brothers André, Bungy and Casey.”

De Kock Jnr developed a deep appreciation for music from an early age. In 2007, he co-established The Black Cat Bones, a band that became synonymous with the blues-rock scene in South Africa. In addition to singing, he played the guitar, harmonica and piano. He was also a member of South African rock supergroup Blood Brothers.

The Black Cat Bones have released five albums to date, with their 2019 offering Here Is a Knife securing a South African Music Awards nomination for Best Rock Album. Their latest collection Book of Miriam was released in 2022. The band has graced numerous festivals and venues across the country.