Award-winning musician Zahara dies
Tributes are pouring in on social media for the South African pop sensation.
Renowned South African singer-songwriter, guitarist, poet and brand ambassador Zahara Mkutukana (36) passed away last night.
In November, Zahara, who sang from the heart with her Afro soul sounds, was admitted to ICU.
Zahara’s debut album Loliwe was released in 2011. The first issue sold out within 72 hours, and 19 days later, the album reached double platinum status in South Africa by surpassing the 100 000 sales mark. This made her the second musician after Brenda Fassie, who was also a Xhosa native, to reach this figure in such record time.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, shared a message of condolence last night.
Kodwa said that government has been assisting the family ‘for some time now’.
“Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” he added.
I am very saddened by the passing of @ZaharaSA. My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry. Government has been with the family for some time now. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music. pic.twitter.com/1a402aQfLs
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) December 11, 2023
The African Transformation Movement posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) expressing its deepest sorrow.
“Zahara was an illustrious musical icon whose influence on the South African music landscape was unparalleled,” said spokesperson Zama Ntshona.
“… she was not only a national treasure but a global phenomenon, garnering multiple awards for her exceptional talent and musical contributions.”
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The ATM mourns that passing of musical trailblazer Zahara. #RIPZahara pic.twitter.com/cwXJKKzGJi
— African Transformation Movement (@ATMovement_SA) December 12, 2023
Tributes from fans continue to pour in
🥺🥺🥺 #RIPZahara …It honestly was never supposed to end like this, so young and we were still looking forward to seeing so much from you ♥️♥️
Lala Ngoxolo Masthathu 🫂🫂 pic.twitter.com/ZgKmLQFSTe
— Lwanda Bana (@lebron_griffin) December 12, 2023
Rest in peace, Zahara. It seemed like yesterday when you released “Loliwe” in 2011 and you became a superstar.
You’ll always shine bright in our hearts and your voice will live in our hearts forever.#ripzahara #Zahara #SouthAfrica #samas #RestInPeace pic.twitter.com/abFV2CjBta
— Jennifer Su (Jen Su) (@jennifer_su) December 12, 2023
Intombi yomgquba has touched hearts and inspired many souls with her soulful voice and powerful lyrics… Zahara 💔🕊️ #RIPZahara pic.twitter.com/ZjI5DEKVqX
— 🦁Aviwe “Zanekhaya” ka Mdani-Xaba (@aviwemdani) December 12, 2023
Loliwe went platinum in 17 days and won 8 SAMAs.
The streets will never forget. #RIPZahara pic.twitter.com/6dthUOJ7ee
— Tinashe Venge (@tnvenge) December 12, 2023
Zahara celebrated her 36th birthday on November 9.
Celebrating 36 years of God’s grace, mercy, and kindness 🖤🤍🤎
To my beautiful family, friends, & fans worldwide, forever grateful for your relentless love & support 🙏🏾
To God who called me & keeps me in perfect peace, all glory to Him 🙌🏾
To many more years🥳🎂🎶#ZaharaArmy pic.twitter.com/ujabZwxrMQ
— ZAHARA (@ZaharaSA) November 9, 2023
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za