South Africa is mourning the passing of legendary songwriter and performer Melvyn Matthews, affectionately known as “Mr Weekend Special”.
His death was officially confirmed by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, which described him as one of the unsung architects of South African popular music.
Matthews is best known for writing and co-producing the iconic 1983 hit Weekend Special for Brenda Fassie, a song that helped launch her into international stardom. He also wrote Life Is Going On, another major track associated with Fassie’s career.
According to the department, Matthews was born and raised in Schauderville in the Northern Areas of Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), and played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of township pop.
Weekend Special sold over 200,000 copies and achieved international success, including charting on the American Billboard charts. The song helped introduce South African music to audiences in the United States, Europe, Australia and Brazil.
The department said Matthews was not only a gifted songwriter but also a performer whose work resonated across generations. He wrote for several artists, including Steve Kekana.
He was also a vocalist for CC Beat, the group that later evolved into Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels, and went on to build an international performing career.
His global career included touring with Percy Sledge and sharing stages with legendary acts such as The Manhattans and Stevie Wonder.