CONDOLENCES and tributes are pouring in from all walks of life following the passing of world-renowned musician Sibongile Khumalo (63).

The legendary classical and jazz singer died yesterday (Thursday) following a lengthy illness after suffering a stroke.

The Soweto-born singer made a profound impact on South Africa and the world through her music, however, she had even deeper roots in Zululand.

With her late father, Prof Khabi Mngoma, a music lecture at the University of Zululand (Unizulu), Sbongile spent her younger years in KwaDlangezwa.

With her family settled in the area, it was no surprise when, years later, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Unizulu.

Her presence in Zululand did not end there; she also had a great relationship with Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi whom her father taught music at Adams College.

During those visits, she created an everlasting bond with the family, more especially with the late Princess Magogo KaDinuzulu.

The pair shared a common love of music, and years later after the princess’s passing, Sbongile would sometimes mimic her music for the audience.

Two years ago, the legendary musician visited her old house in KwaDlangezwa, where she spent time with young children interested in music.

She was also an award-winning musician with a BA Honours degree from the University of Witwatersrand, as well as honorary doctorates from the University of South Africa, and Unizulu.

Her giant footsteps
She began her career in singing at the Kippies Jazz International in 1992.

Her sold-out show called The Three Faces of Sibongile Khumalo, which involved a mix of jazz, opera and local indigenous music resulted in her winning the Standard Bank Young Artist award at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown the following year.

She sang at the 75th birthday of Nelson Mandela in 1993 as well as at his inauguration as President of South Africa one year later.

Over the years, Madiba gave her the popular moniker of ‘South Africa’s First Lady of Song’.

She subsequently led the national anthems of South Africa and New Zealand at the final of the 1995 Rugby World Cup. She released her debut album, titled Ancient Evenings, the following year.

Sbongile was granted a Doctor of Music honoris causa in 2009 by Rhodes University in Grahamstown.

She was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Musicology by the University of South Africa in Pretoria, as well as an honorary Doctor of Philosophy by the University of Zululand.

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