Celebrated SA singer Sibongile Khumalo dies

Affectionately known as Ma’Mngoma, Dr Sibongile Khumalo was a world-renowned jazz and opera vocalist with a career spanning over 30 years. Born in Soweto from a musical dynasty, Khumalo was the daughter of Grace and Professor Khabi Mngoma.

Khumalo began her musical journey at the tender age of eight, and was launched into the limelight when she won the Standard Bank Young Artist Award at the Grahamstown Arts Festival in 1993. Her illustrious career saw her release several critically acclaimed and award winning albums and graced a variety of prestigious events both locally and internationally.

The First Lady of Song as termed by Nelson Mandela was a celebrated and multi-award winning musician. Throughout her career she was awarded many accolades including The Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) bestowed on her by President Thabo Mbeki. Through her music, she has always reflected the richness of her culture, wisdom, and warmth of her family, her community, and her continent.

She will be missed by all who had the privilege of experiencing her music, her friendship and her love. Dr Sibongile Khumalo succumbed to stroke related complications after a lengthy period of illness. The family is grateful for the support and prayers during this time.

This is a moment of great sadness for all of us who were mesmerised and moved by the power, sensuality and improvisation of Sibongile Khumalo’s unique voice.#RIPSibongileKhumalo �� pic.twitter.com/IlHL0KvwGM

— Cyril Ramaphosa ���� #StaySafe (@CyrilRamaphosa) January 28, 2021

BREAKING NEWS: Jazz and Opera Icon, Musician and Vocalist par excellence, Composer and Cultural Activist Sibongile Khumalo has passed away following a stroke, aged 63. Death be not proud. Our weeping has turned into a daily melody of the brokenhearted. #RIPSibongileKhumalo ���� pic.twitter.com/sF2mH69p3h

— Khanyi Magubane (@Khanyi_Magubane) January 28, 2021

A golden voice is now silent on earth. An African queen! A global icon! I have admired her since I was a child. Rest in peace Mama Sibongile Khumalo. You are now the lead singer in heaven's choir. #RIPSibongileKhumalo pic.twitter.com/W4y3HJ93Pa

— Christo ������������ (@ChristoThurston) January 28, 2021