Just before the clock struck 9 pm on Monday night, the showbiz industry was left in shock as the world bade farewell to one of the most iconic musicians in Africa, Zahara.

Bulelwa Mkukutukana, popularly known as Zahara took her final bow on Monday night, leaving a void in the hearts of her fans, Zahara took her last breath in the confines of a private hospital in Johannesburg, with Mpho Xaba, her devoted fiancee standing by her bedside.

Zahara was reportedly hospitalised with liver complications about a week ago, in which her family had released a statement emphasising the importance of relying on accurate information, urging the public to turn to Zahara’s official social media channels for updates on her health.

Born Bulelwa Mkutukana on the 9th of November in 1987, the Afro-Soul Singer/Songwriter was indeed one of the best voices in Africa, Zahara released her debut album, Loliwe in 2011 which went double platinum. Her second album, Phendula in 2013 produced three chart-toppijg singles “Phendula”, “Impilo” and “Stay”.

Her third album, Country girl in 2015 was certified triple platinum. After signing a deal with Warner Music, she went on to release her fourth album, Mgodi in 2017, this was to become her best-selling album and was certified platinum.

Her fifth album, Nqaba Yam in 2021 peaked at Number 1 on iTunes music.

The late music icon also boasted a lot of accolades including 17 South African Music Awards(SAMA), three Metro FM Awards and one Nigeria Entertainment Awards(NEA). Zahara was also on the 2020 list of BBC’s 100 Women, she appeared as a guest judge on the seventeenth season of Idols South Africa in 2021.

The music industry mourns the passing of a legend, her music impacted our day to day lives, it gave us hope and left a mark in our hearts. Gone too soon but not forgotten, our prayers are with the Mkutukana Family.

May your soul rest in eternal peace Zahara.