Zahara was a singer and songwriter who became a massive music star in South Africa with such chart-topping singles as “Phendula,” “Impilo,” and “Stay.”
- Died: December 11, 2023 (Who else died on December 11?)
- Details of death: Died in Johannesburg of liver complications at the age of 36.
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Zahara’s legacy
Born Bulelwa Mkutukana but far better known by her stage name, Zahara started singing at age six in the school choir; by age nine, she had joined the senior choir on the strength of her powerful voice. After school, she began busking on the streets of East London, South Africa, eventually earning the attention of TS Records. Her debut, 2011’s “Loliwe,” was an instant hit and went double platinum domestically. The following year, Zahara dominated the South African Music Awards with eight wins, including Album of the Year and Best Female Artist.
In 2013, Zahara released “Phendula,” another big seller that garnered numerous awards and even earned her an invitation to do a private bedside performance for Nelson Mandela (1918–2013) in the final days of his life. Sales, awards, and accolades continued to flow with her albums “Country Girl” and “Mgodi,” both of which went platinum and led to performances abroad.
In 2019, Zahara revealed that she had been struggling with alcohol addiction and took a brief hiatus from music. Her return in 2021 with “Nqaba Yam” was another success, going to No. 1 on iTunes. That year, she also became a guest judge for “Idols South Africa.”
Tributes to Zahara
Full obituary: BBC
