YoungstaCPT pays tribute to grandfather and mentor: ‘I wouldn’t have made it without you’

Cape Town rapper and cultural storyteller YoungstaCPT is mourning the passing of his beloved grandfather, mentor and collaborator, Shaakie Roberts - a man he often credited as the cornerstone of his life and career. 

Taking to Instagram, YoungstaCPT (real name Riyadh Roberts) shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute to the man who raised and inspired him, expressing grief, gratitude and reverence for the indelible mark his grandfather left on both his life and their community.

“We knew this day would come … I was prepared,” he wrote. “We spoke, and you gave the instructions. Now that the moment has arrived, I could’ve never been ready for your departure.”

Youngsta’s tribute spans music, manhood and legacy.

For the past decade, the rapper had been documenting and recording conversations with his grandfather, a process that culminated in the creation of a timeless collaborative album that interwove generational wisdom with contemporary storytelling.

But even with that foresight, the finality of loss hits hard. 

“Your words echo in my head, your voice replays over and over. I don’t question anything. We said what we needed to. I gave you the spotlight and we made a timeless album together, but my life will never be the same.” 

The post, saturated with spiritual and emotional weight, also included a Qur’anic reflection on mortality:

“Every soul shall taste death, and to Allah we shall return.”

Shaakie - affectionately known as “Gammat” in the community - was more than just a grandfather. He was a mentor, an educator and a symbol of authenticity. Through his teachings, YoungstaCPT found his voice, his cultural identity and his purpose.

“I wouldn’t have made it this far without you and the knowledge you imparted to me as well as our community. I'm going to miss you a lot. It’s a big loss and I’ll recover, but as we said: things take time.”

“You’re the greatest man I’ve ever known. You showed me what it means to be a real man. I could go on and on about Shaakie Roberts, but no one really cares - and I think we’ve both given enough speeches. All that’s left to do now is rest.”

The post ended with a prayer: “You fought ‘til the end, the fight is over. May Allah accept our duas and grant you Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen. I love you, Grandpa.”

Following YoungstaCPT’s emotional post, tributes and condolences poured in from fellow artists, friends and fans who had also come to admire Shaakie through his presence in the rapper’s work. 

Veteran lyricist Stogie T shared a powerful message: “My deepest condolences, R! What a blessing to have not only been raised by such a giant, but that you were generous enough to share him with all of us - that is truly God’s providence."

"I pray for you and your mother’s healing. When a tree falls, everyone hears the sound, but when a tree grows, no one hears it. Things take time."

Cassper Nyovest also offered his support: “Condolences, my brother. May God give you strength and comfort you and your loved ones.”

Nawaal Manuel added, “We are never really prepared to lose someone so beneficial and great in our lives. May Allah grant him the highest ranks in Jannatul Firdaus and place immense sabr in the hearts of you and the family.”

Born and raised in Cape Town, YoungstaCPT is widely recognised as one of South Africa’s most authentic and culturally rooted hip hop voices.

Known for his razor-sharp lyricism, storytelling and fierce pride in his Cape Malay heritage, the rapper has long incorporated themes of identity, history and community into his music.

His grandfather’s voice has become a signature element in several of his works, especially on “3T (Things Take Time)”, an album that explores themes of heritage, masculinity and healing.

Shaakie often appeared in interludes, lending historical and personal context to Youngsta’s narratives - bridging generational gaps and bringing a deeply human texture to the music.

With his grandfather’s passing, YoungstaCPT now steps into a new chapter - one forged in grief, but also in gratitude for the roots that raised him.