Who is Zahara? (Video)

By Victoria Oluwayemi

South African Afro-pop star Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana, who died on Monday at the age of 35, was born on November 9, 1988, in East London, South Africa.

Zahara was self-taught on guitar and broke through in 2011 with her debut album, Loliwe, a commercial hit that also won Album of the Year at the South African Music Awards for Album of the Year.

The celebrated singer, known for her powerful vocals, had been battling alcohol addiction, a struggle she openly shared with her fans in 2019.

She performed the title track for Nelson Mandela at his home before he died in 2013, and later wrote a tribute song with the lyrics: “Hero of heroes / There’s none like him.”

That song, like the rest of her discography, was sung in a blend of Xhosa and English.

Her impact extended beyond music, as she used her platform to advocate against violence toward women, speaking out about the issue as a survivor herself.

Throughout her career, Zahara released multiple platinum-selling albums, including “Phendula” and “Country Girl,” the latter going three times platinum.

Her musical prowess transcended all around the globe, earning her a spot on the BBC’s esteemed 100 Women list in 2020, recognizing her as an influential and inspiring figure globally.

Despite her success, Zahara faced personal challenges, grappling with health issues related to alcoholism, which ultimately led to liver complications.

The Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture in South Africa, Zizi Kodwa, expressed condolences to Zahara‘s family and praised her lasting impact on the music industry.

Watch her last performance below: