BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE– The world woke up to the sad news of the passing of South African multi-award-winning musician Zahara of Loliwe fame.
Bulelwa’, fondly known by her stage name ‘Zahara’ Mkututana, passed away yesterday. The news of her passing was confirmed by South African Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa. The SA minister tweeted that he was very saddened by the passing of the singer and expressed his deepest condolences to her family.
It is worth noting that Zahara’s family posted a statement on her social media, responding that she had taken ill two weeks ago. The 35-year-old was admitted to a private hospital after complaining of physical pains; she sadly passed away last night. The cause of her death has not yet been confirmed.
The late talented singer released her first studio album in 2011, called Loliwe, which went double platinum two years later. Her second album, Phendula, also did well. In 2015, Zahara’s Country Girl album went triple platinum, and Nqaba Yam, her fifth album, was a hit on iTunes. The self-taught guitarist won 17 SA music awards, three Metro FM awards, and a Nigerian award.
Eswatini entertainment industry and some artists have shared their fondest memories of the artist when she was in the country.
This is what they had to say:
Veretaran broadcaster and SBIS Radio presenter Lindelwa Mafa
I met Zahara at the 2022 Makoti Festival. I was the stage manager, and she was among the headlining performers for that debut extravaganza. Her performance in Eswatini was long overdue, given that she first rose to fame during the then-cultural boycott of Eswatini that was being peddled by certain South African artists.
However, when she eventually made her way to our stage, she did not disappoint. In spite of her documented struggles and challenges, she still held the same level of confidence and control that she had at her peak. She was dazzling with sweetness when I met her, and she filled the space with warmth through her affectionate laughter and humour. She stated that she felt at home, something that remains truly characteristic of our people and nation. I had hoped I would get to meet her many other times, but the cruel hands of death had other plans. Her talent was second to none, and her tragic story will continue to shape debates and discourse on the music industry in Africa as a whole, particularly where women in the arts are involved.
May her soul rest in peace!
Local Afro-singer Bholoja
May her soul rest in peace. It’s so sad that she passed away so early. She inspired a lot of people, and I personally loved her music.
I’m still shocked; it wasn’t expected. We had hoped she would recover soon, but the worst happened.
Akalale ngoxolo.
Country music singer Cleopatra Methula “Misses ‘Roses’
I was so saddened to hear that we had lost Zahara. It came as a shock. I truly wish it wasn’t true because I believe she had so much more to share with us through her music.
All I know is that there will never be another Zahara, a true Xhosa country girl, whom I’ve always admired, as she was one of the best female guitarists with a powerful voice and the blessing of writing excellent music.
Sending prayers to her family for strength and comfort in such a time as this.
May her soul rest in peace and her legacy reign forever.
Mthunzi ‘Shadow’ Zwane
The first time I heard or saw Zahara was in Matsulu, Mbombela. I went with my friends, and I had no clue that there was an artist like Zahara. The Loliwe song was getting lots of airplay on high rotation, apparently, but I didn’t know it. When we got there, we found the place packed, and all the people were talking about Zahara, and I had no idea what the fuss was about her. But my God, when she took to the stage, I was blown away by the robust, powerful African voice of the woman.
It was love at first sight, and from that day on, she lived in my heart because she touched my soul within a few minutes of me discovering her. When she performed in the country, you could tell that her spirit was no longer the same. She came to perform here a little bit too late, in my opinion. Umthwalo wami uyangi sinda is my all-time favourite song from Zahara.
Larry Mhlanga
As we reflect on Zahara’s life and work, we remember her as a trailblazer in the music industry. She was unapologetically herself, unafraid to speak her truth and pursue her passions. She was a role model for young women and men, showing them that they could be themselves and achieve their dreams. Her authenticity and vulnerability resonated with so many, and her songs became anthems of self-love and empowerment. Zahara’s legacy will forever be a reminder that art has the power to transform lives and inspire others to reach for the stars.
With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of the beloved Zahara, a gifted and passionate musician who enriched the lives of many through her art. She was a force to be reckoned with, and her impact on the music industry was profound. Her legacy will live on through her songs and the inspiration she gave to so many.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family and fans during this difficult time. May her spirit continue to guide and inspire others to create beautiful music that touches the soul. While her physical presence may be gone, her memory and music will live on forever.
May her soul rest!
