Jazz icon, Sibongile Khumalo has died
Renowned South African Jazz singer, Sibongile
Khumalo has died at the age of 63.
Khumalo succumbed to stroke related complications on Thursday afternoon after a lengthy period of illness, her family confirmed in a statement.
"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 statement read.
The Soweto born songstress, thrilled audiences around the world and was awarded the prestigious Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) by former president, Thabo Mbeki.
Khumalo’s firs breakthrough came back in 1993 when she won the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music in 1993.
Over the years she performed with many celebrated groups and artists, including former president, Nelson Mandela’s 75th birthday.
She also led the South African and New Zealand national anthems at the World Cup rugby final in 1995.
Khumalo won four South African Music Awards and three FNB Vita Awards for her opera and concert work.
Khumalo held a BA in music from the University of Zululand and obtained a BA Hons from the University of the Witwatersrand.
