Winnie Khumalo – Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Winnie Khumalo |
| Born | 1973, Mofolo North, Soweto, South Africa |
| Date of Death | 7th January 2025 |
| Age at Time of Death | 51 |
| Genres | Afro-pop, Gospel, R&B, Soul |
| Debut Single | “Hey Lighty” (1988) |
| Notable Collaborations | Brenda Fassie, Pure Magic, Bongo Maffin, Zonke Dikana, DJ Cleo |
| Albums | “Izono Zami” (1990s), “Live My Life” (2009) |
| Major Achievements | Gold album (“Live My Life” – 2009), Sama nomination for Record of the Year |
| Film & TV Appearances | “Muvhango”, “Mponeng”, “Ma Brrr” (stage musical) |
| Survived by | Daughter Rethabile Khumalo (singer) |
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Winnie Khumalo was born in 1973 in Mofolo North, Soweto, South Africa. She entered the music scene at the tender age of 15 with her debut hit single, “Hey Lighty”, which she released in 1988. This early success set the stage for her remarkable career in the South African music industry.
Breakthrough and Career Milestones
In her youth, Khumalo worked alongside renowned producer Sello ‘Chicco’ Twala, who helped refine her musical talents. She quickly became one of the standout voices in the South African music scene. Known for her unique vocal range and versatility, she later ventured into gospel music in the 1990s with her album Izono Zami, produced by Pastor Langa Dube.
Key Collaborations and Impact
Throughout her career, Khumalo collaborated with major South African artists including Brenda Fassie, Pure Magic, Bongo Maffin, Zonke Dikana, and DJ Cleo. Her reputation as both a backup vocalist and a lead artist grew, cementing her as a key figure in the local music industry. She also ventured into acting, appearing in popular television shows such as Muvhango and Mponeng, and performing on stage in the musical Ma Brrr, where she portrayed the late Brenda Fassie.
Return to Music and Success
After a seven-year hiatus to focus on raising her children, Khumalo made a comeback in 2009 with her album Live My Life, produced by Oskido. The album went gold, selling over 25,000 copies, and earned her a SAMA nomination for Record of the Year.
Legacy and Survivors
Winnie Khumalo is survived by her daughter, Rethabile Khumalo, who has followed in her mother’s footsteps and achieved success as a singer in her own right.
Khumalo’s influence on the South African music scene will remain a lasting legacy. Her powerful voice, musical contributions, and trailblazing role for future generations of artists will continue to inspire.
Cause of Death
Winnie Khumalo passed away on 7th January 2025, at the age of 51, after a short illness. The news of her death sent waves of grief through the South African music community, with tributes pouring in from fellow artists and fans alike.