South Africans have taken to social media to send tributes following the passing of music maestro Sibongile Khumalo. Her family confirmed that she suffered complications due to stroke. The Order of Ikhamanga recipient died in hospital at the age of 63.
#RIPSibonglieKhumalo is currently trending on Twitter with South Africans sending messages of comfort to her family.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the country has been robbed of an icon. “This is a moment of great sadness for all of us who were mesmerised and moved by the power, sensuality, and improvisation of Sibongile Khumalo’s unique voice.”
He says Khumalo was a voice of advocacy for the performing arts. “Not only was she an unmistakable voice on concert stages around our country and the world, but she was a voice of advocacy for the performing arts, for the rights and place of women in our society, and for human rights at large.”
Tributes from fellow artists
Fellow musician Sipho Hotstix Mabuse says he is gutted. “My dear Sibongile, I am hurting. I have no words, an absolute icon. Rest in Peace.”
Khumalo, a BA in Music holder spent some of the days as a music teacher, administrator, and researcher for independent institutions. She has mentored musicians such as Loyiso Bala.
“I don’t even know where to start. You were my mentor, my mom, my teacher, my friend. So many moments that contributed to who I am today. Thank you for your service. Thank you for being amazing,” said Bala in a Tweet.
It is with great sadness we learn of the passing of Mam’ @Sibo_Khumalo.
A talent reservoir, whose voice has reverberated through time and space.
The music industry has truly lost a formidable legend.May her soul rest in perfect peace. pic.twitter.com/kbOgzMfUxu
— SAMRO (@SAMROMusic) January 28, 2021
She has performed on different stages, locally and internationally. Actor Sello Maake shared a picture where he shared a stage with Khumalo with the caption,” I remember this day like it was just yesterday, what a talent you were and it’s so sad that we now have to use your talent in the past tense!
https://twitter.com/JohnKani2/status/1354839009210597376
Khumalo’s death comes days after another musician Jonas Gwangwa died. Some are not coping with the recent deaths.
Words simply fail me regarding the passing of music icon Sibongile Khumalo. Heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and fans. May her remarkable soul #RIP #RIPSibongileKhumalo pic.twitter.com/MOddSHR4Mw
— Prof Thuli Madonsela #KindnessBuilds (@ThuliMadonsela3) January 28, 2021
