Afro-pop singer Zahara died at 36
The singer, whose real name was Bulelwa Mkutukana, died in a Johannesburg hospital. She was often compared to Tracy Chapman.South African Afro-pop singer Zahara died at the age of 36 on Monday night, the government and her record label announced.
Singing in English and her mother tongue Xhosa, one of South Africa’s official languages, Zahara’s style and voice were often compared to those of American artist Tracy Chapman.
The singer was admitted to hospital last month «as a result of pain», according to her family. She had gone public about her battle with alcohol addiction, and her manager revealed in 2019 that she was suffering from liver disease.
Originally from a village near East London (south-east) and from a modest background, Zahara enjoyed success with her debut album Loliwe in 2011, selling out in record time.
She began singing in choirs and taught herself to play guitar. Her voice and style were often compared to those of American singers Tracy Chapman and India Arie, and British singer Joan Armatrading.
She was invited to perform alongside Hugh Masekela, James Ingram and Lauryn Hill at Africa’s biggest jazz festival in Cape Town in 2012.
«I am deeply saddened by the passing of @ZaharaSA» South Africa’s Minister of Culture, Zizi Kodwa, said late on Monday on Platform X. «Zahara and her guitar have had an incredible and lasting impact on South African music», he added.
His record label, Warner Music Africa, also said it was «in mourning».
