South African afro-pop singer and actress Winnie Khumalo has passed away at age 51.
With a career spanning decades, the Soweto-born singer was celebrated for her versatility, performing across genres from pop to gospel, and for hits such as as Live My Life and Yile Gqom.
According to TimesLive, Winnie’s sister and family representative, Tshepi Akeepile, has confirmed that the singer sadly passed away on Tuesday following a brief illness. The Khumalo family is yet to send out an official statement following the passing.
RIP:
Winnie Khumalo
“Live My Life” singer and mother to fellow artist Rethabile has passed away.
She was 51. #RIPWinnieKhumalo pic.twitter.com/UaVOmu7sWf
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) January 7, 2025
Winnie’s sister, Ntshepenge Rakeepile has expressed the family’s loss to SABC News saying, “My sister was sick. She did have a short illness and we really thought she was recovering. But this morning it turned out she hadn’t fully recovered from her illness. She was quickly rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead.”
Tributes continue to pour in for Winnie across social media platforms.
Winnie Khumalo, a music icon celebrated for her incredible talent and electrifying stage presence, has sadly passed away. Condolences to her fans, family and loved ones ❤️??… pic.twitter.com/bAbgdKg0zk
— Entertainment (@TvblogbyMLU) January 7, 2025
So sad to hear about the passing of Winnie Khumalo, just recently she was asking for prayers for her daughter ???️#RIPWinnieKhumalo pic.twitter.com/g5sNEi9ZMP
— Nozipho M (@nozipho_mashaba) January 7, 2025
Sad to hear about the passing of Winnie Khumalo, a true icon in South African music and acting. May her soul rest in peace.?️?️
My sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Her legacy will live on. #RIPWinnieKhumalo pic.twitter.com/k6kQDgmMhR
— TK_Nala (@NalaThokozane) January 7, 2025
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