Jazz songstress, Sibongile Khumalo succumbs to stroke related illness
Thabisile Khomo
Iconic Jazz musician and songwriter Dr Sibongile Khumalo has died aged 63. She died on Thursday morning after along battle with a stroke.
This is according to a media statement said to have been posted by her family on her Instagram account on Thursday evening, a few hours after the news of her death broke.
“Dr Sibongile Khumalo succumbed to stroke related complications after a lengthy period of illness. She will be missed by all who had the privilege to experience her music, friendship and love. The family is grateful for the support and prayers during this time,” the statement said.
The multi-award winning Soweto-born star started her career at a very tender age of 8, and shot to fame in the early 90s when she won Standard Bank Young Artist Award at Grahamstown’s Arts Festival.
MaMngoma, as she has been known by many, used her music as a tool to embrace the richness of her culture among other things.
She released several award winning albums and graced many events both locally and internationally. Among her famous songs back in the mid 90s were ‘Amathonga’ and ‘Ngibiziwe’.
Dr Khumalo’s accolades include the Order of Ikamanga which was bestowed upon her by the former President Thabo Mbeki.
Her death came just a week after the country lost another Jazz legend and trombonist, Jonas Gwangwa.
A gospel star, Andile KaMajola took to his Facebook account to express his gratitude to the Khumalo for her contribution in the music industry.
“Thank you for your music Mzilikazi kaMashobane,” he said.
