After he collapsed onstage while performing, the South African rapper was declared dead at 28.
Constantinos Tsobanoglou (Titch’s actual name) was born on the 10th of September 1995 in South Africa. Titch began rapping at an early age, and his passion for hip-hop inspired him to pursue a music career. He rose to prominence on social media platforms such as TikTok, where he displayed his dance talents, and Instagram, where he posted rap videos.
On Saturday, Titch performed at Ultra South Africa in Johannesburg. A video of his performance went viral on social media, making him look to fall onstage. Someone nearby pulled him up, but he looked to fall again and collapsed off the platform after a few seconds.
In the online video, Costa wore a white shirt and came onto the stage with a microphone in hand. Then went right into one of his songs and appeared completely fine.
The video then switches to Costa belting out another song later in the show, and he appears to reach for one of his backup vocalists before collapsing to the ground. He stood up and finished the music but promptly fell again.
His crew and emergency responders attempted to resuscitate him but were unable. His death cause was not reported. Even his family didn’t share the cause of his untimely death.
Costa’s family thanked first responders in a statement. “We’re thankful for the emergency responders and all those present in his last hours on this earth. As a family we are faced with a difficult time as we try to make sense of what has befallen us and ask that we be afforded the time and space to gather ourselves.”
“The Tsobanoglou family thanks you for the love and support you have given to our son, and may you continue to uplift him even in spirit,” the tribute continued. “Please keep us in your prayers and uplifted in the Lord.”
Ultra South Africa also released a statement on Twitter. We are devastated by the sudden loss of the beloved South African artist Costa Titch, who tragically passed away this weekend.
“Costa was a galvanizing voice amongst South Africa’s amapiano scene- a talented rapper, dancer, songwriter, collaborator, and friend to the festival,” the statement added. “Our deepest thoughts and most sincere sympathies are with his family, friends, and our entire community who are together mourning this heartbreaking loss.”
— Ultra South Africa (@UltraSA) March 12, 2023
AKON also paid tribute to Costa on Instagram, writing, “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our brother Constantinos Tsobanoglou (aka: COSTA TITCH), after the sad, unexpected event occurring last night leading to him collapsing on stage.”
“Costa Titch was more than just an artist. He was a brilliant superstar and hardworking man with a kind heart which endeared him to all around him. I remember when Babs played me his record for the first time. I was convinced that he was going to make an impact in this world. Costa Titch had a vision that I knew for sure would take over the music industry globally and was on his way to doing just that when god’s plan intervened.”
“It’s been a sad day but what makes me feel better is that I know he died doing what he loved doing the most in this world. God bless you COSTA!!!!!” the statement concluded. “The entire team at Konvict Kulture have lost a brother and an important member of the family. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.”