SA music icon Zolani honours Zahara’s legacy

By Venecia Valentine

Zolani Mahola had Mzansi in tears when she paid tribute to iconic South African musician Zahara on the one-year anniversary of her death.

Zahara, whose real name was Bulelwa Mkutukana, passed away on Monday, 11 December 2023, at the age of 36.

In a heartfelt tribute to Zahara, Zolani sang the beloved hit song ‘Loliwe’ in a video she posted on Instagram along with a caption that read: “A year has passed since we lost @zaharasa , a voice that touched the soul of our nation. Her music spoke to our struggles, our dreams, and our resilience. Today, as we honour her memory, I offer this cover of Loliwe, a song that has carried so many of us through the highs and lows of life.

“Zahara’s legacy is not just in the songs she left behind but in the power of her story – one that inspires us all to find our own voice and stand tall in who we are. Her journey also reminds us of the importance of taking care of our health, mental well-being, and the dangers of alcohol abuse. “Zahara’s passing is a painful reminder that we must look after ourselves and those around us, to break free from the cycles that harm us.”

The post concluded: “Let’s also remember that the arts are a powerful tool – a space for healing, understanding, and growth. By nurturing the arts in our communities, we are investing in a future where many more voices can rise, telling their stories and bringing light to our shared experiences. The arts give us strength and can be the instrument of change we need.

“As we mark this year without her, let’s celebrate the impact of art, the healing it offers, and the power it holds to unite us all. May we always carry Zahara’s music with us, and may her legacy continue to inspire. Loliwe lives on.”

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A post shared by The One Who Sings (@zolanimahola)

Zahara burst onto the scene in 2011 with her groundbreaking debut album, ‘Loliwe’, quickly establishing herself as a formidable talent, taking the industry by storm. The album not only became the most-played of its time but also achieved platinum status just 13 days after its release. Within a mere 17 days, it was certified double platinum – a testament to her instant success and the profound connection she forged with her audience.

Zahara’s impact was further solidified at the 18th South African Music Awards (SAMAs), where she garnered eight prestigious awards, including the coveted titles of Best Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year. These accolades reflected her ability to resonate with fans through relatable storytelling and a unique blend of genres that transcended traditional boundaries.

Building on her initial success, Zahara released her second album, ‘Phendula’, in 2013. Once again, she struck a chord with listeners, as the album topped the charts and won her two awards at the 20th SAMAs, including Best Selling Album of the Year and Female Artist of the Year. This upward trajectory in her career highlighted not only her talent but also her evolution as an artist capable of harnessing the emotions and experiences of everyday life into her music.

Fans and followers or Zolani, expressed their appreciation in the comments section on Instagram:

karen_zoid: Stunning 😍

blakolive: Her songs have been playing in my head alot lately and now it makes sense why.

sipiwe_sangqu: Yhooo Zolani.. What a respectful and meaningful rendition. Camagu Sisi, She walked among us, gave herself to us and now ukwingcwele Zodwa – this I believe. 🤗

babalwa.mtshiselwa: I think and ache about Zahara and it ironically inspires me to celebrate her in singing her songs and playing her music often. I wanted to do a cover. I’m so happy to hear and see this, I’m doing the cover ❤️

jodijantjies: Oh @zolanimahola ❤️ so so beautiful May we never forget

toyadelazy: This is so beautiful

shae_neecy: This tribute here 😢❤️

msjafta: Too soon for me to hear someone else do her song so beautifully😭😭😭😭 🫶🏾it just breaks my heart man. I hope we do better with our artists 😢😢😭😭😭. May our artists live long successful careers. Oh Zahara 😢

claudia_thee_goddess: So much passion 🙌

blakolive: This is beautiful. Thank you for your heart 🤍🦋

zuluqueen_in_paris: Thank you for this… she’s greatly missed🙏🏾

thiick_kavanaugh: Such a beautiful rendition of Loliwe 🙌

kholekile_: I love you sis. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️. Thank you for this. 🤗

It’s clear that Zahara’s impact on the music industry and her fans will never be forgotten.