Kwaito artist Doc Shebeleza dies after battling illness

Kwaito artist Doc Shebeleza has died following an illness.

In what will be described as a dark week for Kwaito after singer Winnie Khumalo died on Monday, reports now allege that Doc Shebeleza has died, also at the age of 51.

The Citizen has reached out to Doc Shebeleza’s manager and his family spokesperson Shakes Mavundla for confirmation. The story will be updated once there’s a response.

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said Sebeleza’s death is a “significant loss for South Africa and the entire music industry”.

“On behalf of the ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and countless fans whose lives he touched.

“South Africa has lost not only a music legend but a compassionate soul whose contributions to our cultural heritage and community upliftment will not be forgotten. His music, laughter and legacy will continue to resonate in our hearts,” said McKenzie.

Political party RISE Mzansi was one of the first to release a statement paying tribute to the artist.

“A pioneer of the kwaito genre, Doc Shebeleza’s hits like Ghets Ghetsa, S’kumfete, and Ebumnandini made a lasting impact,” it said in a brief statement.

RISE Mzansi extends condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Victor Bogopane, famously known as #DocShebeleza.

A pioneer of the kwaito genre, Doc Shebeleza's hits like Ghets Ghetsa, S’kumfete, and Ebumnandini made a lasting impact. His bold voice and influence on South… pic.twitter.com/Tpz9nokLyb

— RISE Mzansi (@Rise_Mzansi) January 9, 2025

“His bold voice and influence on South African music will never be forgotten. As we mourn, we celebrate his legacy. His dedication to music and community continues to inspire.”

ALSO READ: Gauteng MEC joins music industry as it mourns Winnie Khumalo

December hospitalisation

Real name Victor Bogopane, Doc Shebeleza’s family asked the public for prayers for his wellbeing in the beginning of December after the 51-year-old was admitted to hospital.

“Mzansi, please put our kwaito legend, businessman, Amaha chairperson in your good blessed prayers, who continues to assist the poorest of the poorest in our beautiful country,” family spokesperson Mavundla told TimesLive at the time.

According to Mavundla, Doc Shebeleza spent time in ICU at a private hospital in Johannesburg.

Mavundla said the artist’s health scare was a surprise as he was preparing to host an event during the festive season.

“I’m shocked, as he was looking happy and healthy and preparing for the Aboguluvala event in Soweto, but we are hopeful he will make it after the operation.”

Doc Shebeleza was booked for surgery after being admitted.

ALSO READ: ‘You see Tyla, Winnie Khumalo was that for us growing up’ – DJ Cleo reflects on singer’s passing [VIDEO]

Signs of recovery in December

The Kwaito artist’s family said he was showing signs of recovery following the operation.

“He’s doing well and he’s in good spirits. He’s under the doctor’s observation and might be discharged soon. We as family are in good spirits as well,” said Mavundla at the time.

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