South African singer and songwriter Zahara – real name, Bulelwa Mkutukana – died last Monday at the age of 35. The artist was admitted to a Johannesburg hospital two weeks ago after suffering a complication in her liver system, causing her death.
The singer had been suffering from an addiction to alcohol for several years, which would have caused serious failures in her liver duct and finally caused her death. Her sister, Normande Mkutukana, said in 2019 that doctors had warned her that if she did not stop drinking, her fate would be fatal.
The performer of hits like Loliwe has received all kinds of tributes through social networks from her followers, who followed with immense concern any news about her state of health since it was confirmed that the artist was in critical condition.
It was last November 27 when Zahara’s family issued an official statement through their Instagram account, where they confirmed that the artist had been admitted to the hospital for a week after suffering “pain” of a physical nature, although without specifying what it was. tried. In addition, they took the opportunity to thank her for her expressions of affection. Despite the severity, they were positive, trusting in a speedy recovery.
The artist’s family rushed to her side after learning of her admission, flying from the United Kingdom to South Africa. So did the singer’s fiancé, Mpho Xaba, who remained by her side until her last moments.
Zizi Kodwa, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa, shared a message sending his condolences to the family for the loss of the singer. “My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry.”
The artist is a symbol for South African music. A self-taught guitarist, she follows in the footsteps of other country music legends such as Letta Mbulu or Miriam Makeba. The poet was also nicknamed the South African “Tracy Chapman”, and she became the star of the so-called “Afrosoul”.
Her charisma, characteristic voice and strength on stage led her to release Loliwe in 2011, a great success that became a multi-platinum album. The artist was awarded, among other awards, seven annual South African Music Awards in that same year, including Best Artist and Album of the Year.
The singer had the honor of performing for Nelson Mandela at the political leader’s home in 2013, shortly before his death. Furthermore, Zahara was well known for her fight for social and women’s rights in South Africa.
