South African – Winnie Khumalo, the iconic South African actress and singer best known for her hit song Live My Life, has died. A family representative confirmed that Khumalo died on Tuesday following a brief illness, leaving a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and fans. She was 51
Family spokesperson Tshephi Rakeepile, speaking on behalf of the grieving family, expressed their deep sorrow during an interview with SABC. “We are deeply saddened as a family to announce the death of our dearly beloved sister, a mother, our friend. She passed away after a short illness, and as a family at this stage, we are deeply saddened,” Rakeepile shared.
Khumalo was the mother of singer Rethabile Khumalo and Thabo Khumalo, son of the late boxing champion Digaan Thobela. Her passing has left the family in shock, especially her daughter, Rethabile, who had been away when her mother fell ill.
“She was sick at that moment, and her daughter was out, but it was her daughter, Rethabile, who actually came back home to take her to the hospital,” said Rakeepile. According to her, Rethabile desperately tried to assist her mother upon returning home, but despite her efforts, Winnie Khumalo’s health quickly deteriorated.
“She did try to help her at that time, but unfortunately, on their drive to the hospital, that’s when she passed away,” Rakeepile added. Upon arriving at the hospital, Khumalo was pronounced dead on arrival.
While the exact cause of her death remains unknown, the family is devastated by the loss of their beloved matriarch. Khumalo leaves behind three grandchildren and an extended family who are grappling with the suddenness of her passing.
A Life Dedicated to Music and Performance
Born in Mofolo, North Soweto, Winnie Khumalo began her illustrious career at just 15 years old, stepping into the limelight with her debut album Hey Laitie, Tshina Tshina, produced by the legendary Sello Chicco Twala. From the very start, her undeniable talent and magnetic stage presence captured the hearts of music lovers across South Africa.
In the early 1980s, Khumalo ventured into gospel music, releasing her first gospel album Dlamini. She later followed this with Izoni Zami in the 1990s, produced by Pastor Langa Dube, further solidifying her place in the country’s rich musical landscape.
Khumalo’s musical journey led her to work with some of the most renowned figures in South African music. She shared the stage with legends such as Brenda Fassie, and her voice can be heard as a backing vocalist for numerous artists, including Pure Magic Sipho Mbele, Brothers of Peace (B.O.P.), Bongo Maffin, Zonke Dikana, and DJ Cleo.
Her talent extended beyond music, as she also graced South African television screens, appearing in popular series like Mponeng and Muvhango, where she portrayed the role of a sangoma (traditional healer). Khumalo also showcased her acting abilities on stage in productions like The Journey and in Twala’s film Madluphuthu.
A Triumphant Return to the Spotlight
After stepping away from the music industry to focus on raising her children, Winnie Khumalo made a triumphant comeback in 2008 with her album I Just Wanna Live My Life. Produced by Kalawa Jazzmee Records and Oskido “Oscar” Mdlongwa, the album marked a new chapter in her career. It sold over 25,000 copies and earned a gold record, with the title track becoming a massive hit and receiving multiple award nominations, including at the Channel O Music Awards.
Winnie Khumalo’s success continued with another major hit, Mina Ngiyohlala Nginje, composed by Chicco Twala. The song even saw her sharing the stage with former President Jacob Zuma during the 2009 African National Congress (ANC) election campaigns, further cementing her place as one of South Africa’s most beloved entertainers.
Tributes Pour In
As news of her death spread, tributes from fans, fellow artists, and the public have poured in across social media. Many have shared heartfelt messages, celebrating her life and honoring her immense contributions to South African music and television. Winnie Khumalo’s voice, talent, and joyful spirit have left an indelible mark, and she will be remembered as a true icon in the country’s entertainment industry.
Winnie Khumalo is survived by her daughter Rethabile Khumalo, her three grandchildren, and her extended family. Her legacy lives on through her music, her roles on screen, and the profound impact she had on those who knew and loved her.