News of the death of South African Gospel music legend Deborah Fraser rocked social media. Scores of fans shared their messages of condolences to Deborah's family after they issued out a statement informing the public of her passing.
The Gospel singer, whose incredible career spans over decades, reportedly suffered a short illness which is said to be diabetes. She first sparked concerns over her health when she was seen performing in a wheelchair.
Now, her family revealed to the general public that she has sadly passed away, at age 56.
“It is with deep sadness to inform you of the passing of our beloved mother, sister, aunt and friend, and Gospel musician, Dr Deborah Fraser following a short illness. She passed on today after midday, in the presence of her family and friends.”
“As Dr Deborah Fraser’s family we would like to be given space to process and deal with this very tragic situation. The public will be further informed on any developments.”
The president of Cultural Creative Industries of South Africa, Joy Mbewana was helping the singer get back on her feet after being released from hospital in April. Joy says a psychologist was helping her recover so she can inspire the younger generation
“After she came out of hospital early in April, Silapha Wellness programme organised a psychologist for her and she told me that she wanted to go with me to those sessions. She wanted to get better so that she can start working. But things got worse last week when she suffered a stroke. I am hurt because she wanted to share her experience as a woman in the music industry with young artists.”
Messages of condolences have been flooding in for the singer:
i loved u so much😭💔❤️ and i will miss you forever🌺🌹❤️ my deepest condolences to your beautiful family… love and light to them all #ripdeborahfraserpic.twitter.com/d6SZPpps4d
Another Gospel icon making it in the news is Dr. Rebecca Malope who was allegedly cussed by Bucy Radebe’s manager and husband Thapelo Thoboke at Sun City Superbowl.
Taking to her social media, Rebecca said she was hurt after being disrespected by the man. "I am so hurt, I've never experienced such disrespect as I did last night. I thought I'd be fine this morning but I'm not ok. South Africa, please pray for my heart to be mended."
The other party shared a statement which said: "The best way to describe this situation is that there was a misunderstanding which resulted in this matter being blown out of proportion the way it has. I wish to state the following for this record.
"The unfortunate incident between me and the manager of Dr Rebecca Malop's manager which was because of changes in the song approach which I was not informed of, unfortunately, reached Dr Malope's ears as she was in close proximity to ears being prepared to go on stage.
"On the incident itself, I simply stated to Dr Malope's manager that "If the song is not done according to our plans, it will lose the whole idea of honouring her and we may decide not to release it as it will be a waste to take it for post-production."
