(The Post News)- The South African music industry is mourning from the news of the passing of legendary kwaito star Doc Shebeleza. Born Victor Bogopane, the 51-year-old music icon died in hospital on Thursday morning after a lengthy battle with illness. His family confirmed the news, leaving fans and fellow musicians in shock and sadness.
After being admitted to a private hospital in Johannesburg’s Intensive Care Unit, the Kwaito legend had a successful surgery. The 51-year-old’s mother begged Gauteng MEC for Education, Arts, Sports, Culture, and Recreation Matome Chiloane and Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie in December to help the artist in raising money for his upcoming life-saving surgery, which is set for February this year. The money was intended to be used to buy Doc Shebeleza’s vital and necessary prescription drugs to treat his serious illness.
Doc Shebeleza’s music career began in the mid-1990s with the release of his debut album “S’Kumfete” in 1996. The album was a massive hit, and its success paved the way for the kwaito genre to gain mainstream popularity. With hits like “Ghets Ghetsa”, “S’kumfete”, and “Ebumnandini”, Doc Shebeleza became a household name in South Africa.
Growing up in Soweto, Doc Shebeleza was exposed to a rich cultural heritage that influenced his music. He drew inspiration from legendary artists like Brenda Fassie and Mandoza, who were also pioneers of the kwaito genre. With a career spanning over two decades, Doc Shebeleza released several albums, including “Shebeleza” and “Tiger”, cementing his status as a kwaito legend.
In his final interview with the Happy Dayz podcast, Doc Shebeleza spoke openly about his struggles with illness and his desire to be remembered for his music. Despite his health challenges, Doc Shebeleza remained optimistic, and his music continued to inspire and uplift fans across the country.
Tributes have been pouring in from fans, fellow musicians, and politicians, all paying homage to Doc Shebeleza’s enduring legacy. Political party RISE Mzansi released a statement praising Doc Shebeleza as a “pioneer of the kwaito genre” whose music had a lasting impact on South African culture.
As the music world mourns the loss of this kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza’s music will continue to live on, inspiring future generations of musicians and fans alike. His contribution to the kwaito genre and South African music will never be forgotten.
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