Zahara Cause of Death and Obituary, Who Was Zahara? What Happened to South African Music Icon Zahara? How Did Zahara Die?
by P Nandhini | Updated Dec 13, 2023
What Happened to South African Music Icon Zahara?
On December 11, 2023, South Africa mourned the loss of its music icon, Zahara, whose real name was Bulelwa Mkutukana. At the age of 36, the singer, songwriter, and guitarist passed away at a hospital in Johannesburg. The cause of her death was not disclosed by her family, who had previously shared that Zahara had been admitted to the hospital for an undisclosed issue the previous month.
Zahara's departure marked the end of a remarkable career that began with the release of her debut album "Loliwe" in 2011, which went on to become double platinum and set the stage for her subsequent chart-topping albums. Her passing prompted an outpouring of grief across South Africa, with tributes flowing in from various sectors, including political parties, Parliament, and fans who remembered her not only for her musical prowess but also for her advocacy on social issues.
Zahara's influence extended beyond her music, as she used her platform to address societal challenges, particularly violence against women in South Africa. Her impact was acknowledged internationally when she was included in the BBC's list of the 100 most influential women in 2020.
Zahara's legacy remains deeply rooted in her ability to connect with audiences through her soulful melodies, and her untimely death left the nation reflecting on the profound loss of a beloved cultural figure who had made significant contributions to the South African music scene.
Who Was Zahara?
Zahara, whose real name was Bulelwa Mkutukana, was a renowned South African singer, songwriter, and guitarist born on November 9, 1987. Rising to fame with her debut album "Loliwe" in 2011, Zahara quickly became a sensation in the music industry. Her music, often described as "Afro-soul," showcased a unique blend of Xhosa, her native language, and English.
Known for her heartfelt ballads and strident vocals, Zahara's impact on South African music was profound. Over the years, she released several successful albums, including "Phendula" (2013), "Country Girl" (2015), and "Mgodi" (2017), each earning platinum certifications.
Beyond her musical achievements, Zahara was a symbol of hope, representing her rural Eastern Cape upbringing and using her platform to address societal issues, including violence against women in South Africa. Zahara's journey began with her self-taught guitar skills, and at the age of 23, she achieved remarkable success with "Loliwe," which became South Africa's second-fastest-selling album at the time.
Her ability to connect with audiences through soulful melodies and poignant lyrics earned her widespread acclaim, with numerous awards recognizing her talent, including 17 South African Music Awards and a spot on the BBC's list of the 100 most influential women in 2020. Zahara's legacy goes beyond the music charts; she remains a beloved figure, remembered for her impactful contributions to South African culture and her advocacy for social issues.
How Did Zahara Die? Cause of Death Revealed
The cause of Zahara's death, the South African music icon, was not explicitly revealed by her family. However, reports indicate that she had been grappling with health issues, including liver complications, which led to her hospitalization. Zahara's struggles with alcoholism, publicly acknowledged in 2019, were known to have contributed to liver disease.
Despite efforts to address her health concerns and the government's assistance to her family, Zahara succumbed to her condition on December 11, 2023, at the age of 36. Her passing marked the end of a musical journey that had deeply resonated with fans, and her family requested privacy during the difficult time.
Zahara Obituary
Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana on November 9, 1987, passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 36. A celebrated South African singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Zahara gained fame with her debut album "Loliwe" in 2011. Her soulful voice, chart-topping albums, and advocacy against violence against women left an indelible mark on South African music and culture.
Zahara's legacy is defined by her impactful contributions and the challenges she faced, including battles with alcoholism and liver complications. Her untimely death has left a void in the music industry, and she will be remembered as a beloved icon whose influence extended far beyond the stage.
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Zahara Cause of Death and Obituary - FAQs
Zahara, whose real name was Bulelwa Mkutukana, was a renowned South African singer, songwriter, and guitarist born on November 9, 1987.
Zahara passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 36.
The exact cause of Zahara's death was not explicitly revealed, but she had been facing health issues, including liver complications related to her acknowledged struggles with alcoholism.
Zahara's debut album was "Loliwe," released in 2011, which became double platinum and marked the beginning of her successful career.
Zahara made significant contributions to South African music with her soulful voice, chart-topping albums, and impactful advocacy against violence against women.