Africans are shaken by the tragic passing of South African jazz and soul sensation Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana, on Monday, December 11, at a private Johannesburg Hospital, succumbing to liver complications after a two-week hospitalization.
On November 27, Zahara’s family and team released a statement to give an update on her health and to stop disingenuous information regarding her health that had been spreading over the internet
According to another statement by her family, during her final moments, the 36-year-old Zahara was surrounded by family and loved ones.
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In no specific order, below are some of the tributes paid to the late star on social media and directly through The New Times.
Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa
Zahara’s passing is unfortunate. We have been robbed of great talent. She is one of the best we have produced in the arts and I am deeply saddened by her passing.
Remmy Lubega, organizer of Kigali Jazz Junction
She was an amazing soul down to earth, so talented and extremely one of the artistes that you would work with again and again. It’s a great loss to African Jazz and soul. She was unique about her artistry and approach yet she was open to work with anyone and exchange ideas. It’s hard to comprehend that Zahara is gone but we shall remain as fans for her art and that joy she brought to our ears and hearts.
Ariel Wayz
I will always remember Zahara for being a big inspiration to me. She has a song called ‘Loliwe’ that I love so much. I remember while I was still in a band I used to sing that song, I have many memories with that song and may her soul rest in peace.
Papa Wemba
I will always remember this beautiful tribute to Nelson Mandela by Zahara. RIPZahara
Darest
I loved her music, mostly a song Called 'Impilo' which translates to feelings or sentiment. It was released on her second album after her viral 'Loliwe'. Seeing her playing guitar was everything, I enjoyed seeing her at Kigali Jazz Junction. Unfortunately, I won’t get that Chance again. She was really an inspiration to many mostly boys and girls who were learning how to sing, including me. She left an unshakable legacy; her songs will always be played everywhere. My condolences to her family and African music family at large RIP Zahara
Rwandan singer Bruce Melodie on his Instagram handle also paid tribute to the talented singer. "Rest in paradise queen Zahara”, he posted.
Via X handle, Kigali Jazz Junction concert which the late Zahara graced twice also paid their tribute. "RIPZahara: a musical legend whose legacy resonates in our hearts. Rest in peace, legend,” they posted.
About Zahara
Zahara's musical journey featured hits like ‘Ndize’, ‘Loliwe’, and ‘Umfazi’, ‘Le Ngoma’, showcased across five studios
Zahara performed in Rwanda, gracing the stage at Kigali Jazz Junction in both 2018 and 2019. She’s also known to have performed for late South African President Nelson Mandela.
ALSO WATCH: Interview: Jazz songstress Zahara in Kigali
After signing a record deal with TS Records, Zahara&039;s debut album ‘Loliwe' in 2011 went double platinum. Her subsequent releases, such as ‘Phendula’ (2013) with chart-toppers like "Phendula," "Impilo," and "Stay," made her a household name.
Zahara’s third album, ‘Country Girl’ (2015), was certified triple platinum. Post her departure from TS Records, Zahara signed with Warner Music, where she released her best-selling album, ‘Mgodi’ in 2017. In 2021, Zahara's fifth album, ‘Nqaba Yam’, peaked number 1 on iTunes charts.
Her career garnered 17 South African Music Awards, three Metro FM Awards, and a Nigeria Entertainment Award. She appeared on the BBC's 100 Women list in 2020 and was a guest judge on the 17th season of Idols South Africa in 2021.