Shareholder clashes force the closure of the iconic youth-culture festival founded by the late rapper Riky Rick.
Bulelwa Hoala
Bianca Naidoo, partner of the late rapper Riky Rick, has announced that Cotton Fest, the festival he founded in 2019, has come to an end.
In a statement released on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, the festival confirmed that the decision was made following ongoing disagreements between current shareholders.
“Sadly, differences among the current shareholders have led to disputes that make it increasingly challenging to continue the festival in a manner that upholds the standards and vision set out by its sole founder, Riky Rick,” the statement reads.
Naidoo thanked fans for playing an instrumental role in keeping Riky Rick’s legacy alive and emphasised that the festival’s core mission was to create a platform for young talent to shine.
“While we remain extremely proud of what the festival has achieved and deeply grateful for the support from our fans, partners and artists over the years, the differences in vision and purpose between the two parties have made it clear to our family and the team that concluding this chapter is the most realistic path forward,” Naidoo said.
The next leg of Cotton Fest was scheduled to take place at Old Park Station in Newtown on Saturday, 28 March 2026.
A refund process for all ticket holders has been posted on Instagram.
See the image below for refund details:
Riky Rick, whose real name was Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado, died by suicide at the age of 34 on 23 February 2023 following a long battle with depression.
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