The singer performed a tribute to the legendary South African musician alongside music icon Tu Nokwe.
Holly Rey performing Miriam Makeba tribute at NACA 2026. Picture: Supplied
Holly Rey paid tribute to the late Miriam Makeba during the 2026 National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) at Sun City Resort on Friday night.
The singer and songwriter performed a tribute to the legendary South African musician alongside music icon Tu Nokwe.
Speaking to The Citizen, Rey said the tribute was meaningful to her because of Makeba’s influence on her career and music.
“Performing a tribute to Miriam Makeba was absolutely amazing for me. She’s such an icon. She’s been an integral part of my career, my musical influences,” she said.
Rey said performing alongside Nokwe was also a highlight of the tribute.
“To do it with an icon like Tu Nokwe was also just amazing,” she said.
“I feel very fulfilled and grateful that I had this opportunity to honour an absolute legend.”
Holly Rey takes a step back from music
The NACA performance comes as Rey slowly returns to the music industry after taking a year away for health reasons.
The singer previously revealed that she was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.
“I’ve just taken a step back from music completely, so nothing exciting can happen anytime soon,” she said when asked about new projects.
Rey said she put her music career on hold while focusing on her health.
“I was diagnosed with renal failure, chronic kidney disease last year,” she said.
“So, I took a step back from music for a year.”
The singer said she is now gradually returning to the industry.
“Now I’m just coming up again, slowly integrating into the industry, and just really doing things that feel close to my heart and that are filled with love, like this, honouring the late, great Miriam Makeba.”
Rey said fans can expect new music in 2027.
