South African singer Zahara ( Bulelwa Mkutukana) tragically passed away on 12 December 2023 after getting hospitalised and slipping into a coma

The Loliwe singer’s death at 35 sent shock waves across South Africa, and we’ve put together key times Zahara cemented herself as the country’s queen of Afrosoul

1. Loliwe: Zahara sings her way into Mzansi’s hearts

One of Zahara’s most impactful works is her break-out hit Loliwe (Train). She hit the South African market with the isiXhosa melody. The gospel song released in 2011 became a cultural staple.

2. Zahara sings for Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela is one of South Africa’s most iconic anti-apartheid activists. Zahara got to sing Loliwe for Mandela, and she did it without any frills, just her voice and a guitar:

The performance was broadcast on Africa Unplugged and recently shared by @MDNnewss on X:

3. SA remembers Nelson Mandela song by Zahara

It is only fitting that one of Zahara’s memorable performances is one dedicated to Mandela. She did a stirring rendition of the song, specially written for the freedom fighter on national TV.

Watch the performance on SABC News a decade ago:

4. Zahara shares pearls of wisdom

When not on stage, Zahara would give sight about life. The songstress sat down with Newzroom Afrika, where she discussed the reality of being a musician. She also flexed her vocal skills mid-interview by breaking out into songs multiple times.

Watch the wholesome video:

5. Xa Bendino Mama Zahara Live performance moves SA

A user on X shared a video of Zahara featuring a group of Xhosa traditional dancers. In the video, she looked vibrant as she stepped in rhythm with the group.

Watch the beautiful moment shared by @mispampi:

6. Zahara gets playful at EFF rally

A netizen @mapulanamokgosang remembered Zahara by sharing a clip of the star having fun performing at an EFF event. In the video, she made a melody for the political party and showed tons of personality on stage.

7. What did Zahara want her legacy to be?

In a Podcast & Chill podcast interview with Mac G, Zahara said she wants to be remembered for her talent. She said:

“I want to be remembered as the girl next door who changed lives.”

8. Zahara gives fans live version of Mgodi

One of Zahara’s latest performances before her passing was a 20-minute performance. She sang hits from her 2017 gold-certified album Mgodi.

9. 2019 RMB Starlight Classics features Phendula by Zahara

Afro-soul singer Zahara gave a soulful performance of Phendula of the same name. The sngis included in included in the #RMBStarlightClassics Legacy Series.

10. Zahara entertains at SAMA18

A year after Loliwe’s viral success, Zahaara looked stunning performing the song live on 30 April 2012 at the South African Music Award (SAMAs). Watch her live rendition at the national music awards, where she won eight SAMAs.