Kelly Khumalo

Kelly Khumalo is a popular and controversial singer, actress and model. Born in 1984 she grew up in the rural Nquthu in KwaZulu-Natal. In 2003, she was discovered when performing at a gospel talent search and soon signed to Bonsai Entertainment. Her first performance as a professional artist was in front of a 30 000 strong crowd at a Kaizer Chiefs soccer match. Hardly two months into the music industry she was the opening act for US rap star Missy Elliot.

In 2005 she released her first solo album, 'TKO', featuring the massive hit ‘Qinisela’, which was nominated for Song of the Year and Best Afro Pop album at the 2006 Samas. The album was followed by 'Itshitshi' (2006), 'Siyajabula' (2007), 'Simply Kelly' (2008) and 'The Past, The Present, The Future' in 2013, which earned her a Sama for Best Female Artist in 2013.

Kelly first appeared on TV in the drama series Mtunzini.com, before taking the role of Sunay, a singer, in the the popular soapie Rhythm City. She has also featured in Mzansi Love and the reality show Rolling With. Despite her successes, she has been dogged by various controversies over the course of her career.