The family of renowned and celebrated songstress, Dr Sibongile Khumalo confirmed her passing earlier yesterday.
Sources close to the 63 year old jazz legend said she was ill for some time before succumbing to an undisclosed illness on Thursday morning. Khumalo who was born in Orlando West in Soweto in 1957 had been lauded as one of the greatest singing talents of her time.
Read more: African Jazz Legends That Died On The Same Day
Read more: African Jazz Legends That Died On The Same Day
What made Khumalo stand out? Her range wasn’t boxed like many artists of her generation and today, as she’d covered a variety of genres from, choral music, classic, jazz, musical theatre and many more genres.
She’ll be remembered for her award-winning opera work and for hits such as, Mayihlome and Thula Mama.
Khumalo received the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, for her contribution to arts and culture in the musical fields of jazz and opera and made a significant impact on South Africa and the world through her passion for music. The doctor was a music teacher before earning the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver.
Here are messages of condolence from South African celebrities:
Politician, Herman Mashaba: “Another artistic giant lost. My condolences to the family and friends of Sibongile Khumalo. A South African star whose light has been extinguished before her time. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
Actress and singer, Mara Louw: : “I thought why is this happening? I was just shocked. It is difficult when you hear such news. Even words of condolences don't seem to have meaning any more. It is just shock. Whenever you hear the phone ring, you fear the worst.”
Actress and singer, Mara Louw: : “I thought why is this happening? I was just shocked. It is difficult when you hear such news. Even words of condolences don't seem to have meaning any more. It is just shock. Whenever you hear the phone ring, you fear the worst.”
Radio host, Redi Tlhabi: “One of my interviews with the one and only Sibongile Khumalo, giving advice to then upcoming start, Zahara. I loved her song: O ya kae Moshanyana. She always said ‘Redi’, that songs again! I have others you know!’ oh the heart just breaks! Rest in peace.”
Artist, Sipho Hotstix: “Gutted my dear friend Sibongile – I am hurting… I have no words – an absolute icon – Rest In Peace. “
Singer and actress, Simphiwe Dana: “News of my MaKhumalo, Sibongile Khumalo. I don’t know maan. I’m breaking into a hundred pieces.”
Radio host and TV presenter, Ursula Chikane: “Remember girl it’s in you. Don’t forget child that your arms are like the waves of the ocean. Remember girl it’s in your eyes, you can touch it, little girl. Let you dream carry you…SIBONGILE KHUMALO –LITTLE GIRL (Off the album Ancient Evenings.”
Image Cred: Twitter
Image Cred: Twitter