One of the original members of Mbaqanga group, the Mahotella Queens, Nobesuthu Mbadu has passed on.
Mbadu died at the Thelle Mogoerane hospital in Vosloorus, Ekhuruleni due to kidney failure.
She joined the Mbaqanga group in 1964, at the age of 19, and retired in 2017 due to ill health.
Family Spokesperson Vanessa Tloubatla, says in a statement, her family and colleagues are devastated and have asked for space to mourn.
The Mbaqanga group was formed by Rupert Bopape in 1964, and Nobesuthu Mbadu with Hilda Tloubatla and Mildred Mangxola who retired and was replaced by Amanda Nkosi, were known as the Mahotella Queens. Together with lead male vocalist Simon Nkabinde, better known as “Mahlathini” they went on to create many hits throughout the years. These included, “Mbude”, “Uyavutha Umlilo”, “Melodi ya Lla” amongst many more.
Despite age, the group continued performing on stage.
Mbadu retired in 2017 due to ill health, and has taken the final bow on the life stage.
One of the founding members of The Mahotella Queens, Nobesuthu Mbadu has passed away:
