As tributes stream in for South African musician Winnie Khumalo, her music continues to be an inspiration for many South Africans.
Khumalo, 51, died on Tuesday in hospital after a brief illness, her family said.
To me and so many others, Khumalo wasn’t just a singer; she was a cultural force as well as a trailblazer who shaped South Africa’s music scene and inspired generations to come.
At just 15 years old, she burst onto the music scene with her debut album, “Hey Laitie”, in 1988. Produced by the legendary Sello “Chicco” Twala, the album introduced the world to her soulful vocals and storytelling prowess.
Over the years, Khumalo’s career became a mirror of South Africa’s evolving musical landscape. She moved effortlessly across genres, from gospel to kwaito and Afro-pop, leaving an indelible mark with each venture. And even 24 years after she released her song “Live My Life”, people are still going crazy it.
“I'm genuinely surprised by how much non-black folks love Winnie Khumalo's Live My Life, lol. DJ played it and the white and Indian folk lost it!” Khanda Kool once said last year.
Khumalo was a beacon of hope to the community of Mofolo North, Soweto, where she grew up. I remember how my older cousins who went to the same high school (Mncube High School) as her used to brag that their school produced a celebrity.
Those were interesting times because they were happy to see the person with whom they grew up making waves on television.
Although she didn’t win awards that year, the hood was proud of her because “Live My Life” granted her a spot at the Channel O Music Awards and it was nominated for Best Dance Video and Best Afro Pop Video.
Written by Zonke, Winnie Khumalo, Wakes Zondeka, Oskido and Bruce Sebitlo, “Live My Life” lifted so many spirits because she spoke about reinventing herself and never giving up.
She also spoke about forging forward no matter how hard it gets because the more you grow, the more you realise how tough life is. The fact that she stood alongside some of the biggest names in the industry made all of us feel like we were right there with her, basking in the spotlight.
Also, showing gratitude to her grandmother by thanking her for all the teachings and love is what resonated with so many people, especially those raised by their grandparents.
“Your song ‘Live My Life’ is still relevant even today. Khumalo is a mother of a beautiful daughter who sings beautifully by the name of Rethabile Khumalo. Lala Ngoxolo mama (rest in peace mama),” said @MalumeAphe51715 on X.
Khumalo’s legacy is alive not only through her music but also through her daughter, whose powerful voice has also found her own success.
This passing of the baton feels like a continuation of the hope Khumalo gave us - a legacy that says, “We’re not done yet.” RIP Winnie Khumalo your old hood salutes you.