The Soweto-born musician and actress Winnie Khumalo has died today at the age of 51 after a short-illness at her home in Johannesburg.
The devastating news of her death was confirmed even by the recording label Kalawa Jazmee Records which was overseeing her music over the years.
"It is with great sadness that Kalawa Jazmee Records confirms the passing of Winnie Khumalo.Winnie passed away today after a short illness.
"A true icon,Winnie Khumalo made a remarkable contribution to the South African music scene,inspiring many with her powerful voice and unforgettable performances.Her passion,talent,and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the industry and in the hearts of her fans.
"We extend our deepest condolences to her family,friends,and fans during this difficult time,"said Kalawa Jazmee Records.
She began her music career at the age of 15 when she released her first album 'Hey Laitie,Tshina Tshina' in the 1980s which was produced by Sello Chicco Twala.
In the 1990s,she released her gospel album titled Izono Zami which was produced by Pastor Langa Dube.
She worked as a backing vocalist for the late icon Brenda Fassie and that was one of those moments which paved the way for her to the music industry.
She took a long break in the music industry while she was dedicating all her precious time to raise her two kids Thando(son) and Rethabile(daughter).
She made a comeback in 2008 with the album 'I Just Wanna Live My Life' which was released under Kalawa Jazmee Records and was produced by Oscar 'Oskido' Mdlongwa,that album reached gold status after selling over 25,000 copies.
Her latest album was The Storm-Isivunguvungu which was released in 2022 and was following the album Higher and Higher which was released in 2013.
Over the years,she worked with South African music giants such as Pure Magic,Sipho Mbele,Brothers of Peace(B.O.P),Bongo Maffin,Zonke Dikana and DJ Cleo.
She was not only focusing on music but she spread her wings into the acting industry,and she played roles in Muvhango,Mponeng and also did stage plays.
She is also the mother of singer Rethabile Khumalo who is known for her hits such as 'Ntyilo Ntyilo' and 'Uvalo'.Her daughter Rethabile was hospitalised last year after she poisoned by her friend.
She grew up in Soweto at Mofolo North,she attended school at Vuyo Lower Primary and matriculated at Mncube Senior Secondary School.