Leon Botha [Die Antwoord] :: Passes at 26 Years Young

Most of you will know Leon Botha as the guy who starred in Die Antwoord’s music videos. Some of you might know him as one of the world’s oldest living survivors of progeria; a rare disease where symptoms of ageing manifest themselves at an early age. What you might not know about Leon is that he had no formal training in art beyond high school but opened his first solo exhibition in 2007 entitled ‘Liquid Swords: I Am Hip-Hop‘ which revolved around hip-hop and its way of life.

His second solo exhibition opened in March 2009 and featured pieces of the artist’s life. Botha was asked if the title “Liquid Swords; Slices of Lemon” referred to the adage “If life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Botha said no, adding, “Lemons? I slice ‘em and serve ‘em back!” – wiki

I saw Leon for the first time at Die Antwoord’s first gig in CT since they blew up. He opened for the zef crew as DJ Solarize and sliced through the crowd with some nostalgic hip-hop beats infused with some big room dance classics. I was lucky enough to have a backstage pass and when this dude walked off stage we had a brief but nice chat. What a cool guy. Super humble, super chilled out. He just sat and watched Waddy / Ninja and Yolandi get on stage and do their thing lined in gold spandex. After about 30 minutes he left he was helped out of the area with his walking stick. It was kind of powerful, he was so gentle, nice and gave an aura of wisdom and youth.

Leon passed away after celebrating his 26th Birthday on the 4th June. It is a sad time when we lose inspirational people like this.

R.I.P Leon Botha

4th June 1985 – 5th June 2011

Send his friends and family some love on his facebook page