South African singer Sibongile Khumalo dies at 63

Khumalo’s death was first announced on social media with condolences pouring in from fans and fellow musicians. Her death was later confirmed by family spokesperson Bandile Mngoma who said the singer succumbed to stroke-related complications after a long illness.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Sibongile Khumalo, our iconic, world-celebrated South African singer, affectionately known as Ma’Mngoma,” Mngoma said.

“She will be missed by all who had the privilege of experiencing her music, her friendship and her love. The family is grateful for the support and prayers during this time.”

The South African Music Awards (SAMAs) wrote on Twitter: “We are saddened by the passing of the phenomenal, three-time SAMA winner and jazz musician, Sibongile Khumalo. We send our condolences to her family, friends and South Africans at large. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”

The South African Music Performance Rights Association also wrote: “Another sad loss for the music industry. We have learnt of the passing of legendary Jazz singer-songwriter, Mam Sibongile Khumalo. Our deepest condolences to the Khumalo family.”

Khumalo died just days after the passing of legendary South African jazz trombonist Jonas Gwangwa, 83, on Saturday.

Music In Africa had the pleasure of speaking to Khumalo ahead of the 2019 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival, where she expressed her great passion for performing on stage. “It’s always exciting to share with others, young or old, because it affords one the opportunity to learn,” she said.

Khumalo also implored industry players and the government to address the challenges faced by female musicians in South Africa.

“I believe it’s important for role players such as the government, promoters, venue owners and others to recognise that the needs of women may not be the same as those of men. This means that there must be awareness of and sensitivity to those needs or demands. Also, the language used where women are concerned must be tempered with a great deal of emotional sensitivity. We need to get past the expectation that women must be happy with being seen as ‘the girls’, thus rendering as helpless and incapable front faces.”

Khumalo was born in Soweto, Johannesburg. Her career began taking shape when she won the Standard Bank Young Artist Award at the Grahamstown Arts Festival in 1993. She is credited for releasing albums like Live at the Market Theatre, Immortal Secrets, Quest and Breath of Life.

Throughout her career, which spanned more than three decades, Khumalo was awarded a various accolades, including the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) bestowed on her by fromer South African presdient Thabo Mbeki. She performed at many prestigious venues abroad, including the Royal Festival Hall in London, Ravinia Festival in Chicago and Het Muziektheater in Amsterdam.