Winnie Khumalo, the celebrated South African singer and actress, has passed away at the age of 51 following a brief illness, as confirmed by her family.
The Afropop artist, whose career began in the 1980s, was widely known for her contributions to the South African music scene and her appearances in well-loved TV shows.
She gained fame for her hit song Live My Life and was a prominent figure in collaborations with renowned South African artists, including the late Brenda Fassie.
Her sister, Tshepi Akeepile, shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that Khumalo passed away on Tuesday while being rushed to the hospital.
“She had been unwell for a short time, but we thought she was on the mend. However, this morning, we learned that she hadn’t fully recovered.
Sadly, she passed away before reaching the hospital,” Akeepile said in an interview with SABC TV. The cause of her illness remains unclear.
Khumalo’s legacy in music and television endures, and she was cherished for her powerful voice and ability to captivate audiences with her diverse performances.
In addition to her successful solo albums, she was also known as a backup singer for Brenda Fassie.
Khumalo leaves behind her daughter, Rethabile Khumalo, a singer in her own right, and her son, Thabo Khumalo.
Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow celebrities alike, many expressing their grief and disbelief at her untimely passing.
Kalawa Jazmee Records, the label she worked with, honored Khumalo as a “true icon,” praising her for inspiring countless artists with her “unforgettable performances” and her “passion, talent, and dedication.”
Her contributions to the music industry and her unforgettable presence will continue to resonate with fans and the South African entertainment community.
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