Veteran musician and actress Winnie Khumalo’s life was celebrated at a memorial service at the Market Theatre, Johannesburg on Wednesday, 15 January.
Government officials, A-list celebrities, friends, family and fans gathered at the Market Theatre to celebrate her life.
The 51-year-old music icon died on Tuesday, 7 January, after a short illness. Her death was confirmed by her family.
During the memorial service, African National Congress (ANC) veteran Jeff Radebe recounted a memorable experience with Khumalo, describing her spirit and ambition.
“I met Winnie Khumalo when we had to drive all the way to Nkandla to meet the former president Zuma at his home in December 2008 to make him listen to her demo tape,” he reminisced. “I told her she not only had to wear the ANC colours but also a mini skirt, shorter than that of Chommie, “he said, showcasing her vibrant personality.
Veteran Producer Sello “Chicco” Twala, known for his close ties with Khumalo, also shared his fond memories. Reflecting on their relationship, he acknowledged that despite numerous fights over the years, Khumalo was always eager to move on and continue her musical journey.
“I was with Winnie just two days before she passed on. There were no signs of sickness. She was her usual bubbly self and she was laughing when I visited her, “Twala recalled.
“That’s why they say, death is a thief. For me, she was more than a sister; we had known each other since she was just 14,” illustrating the depth of their friendship.
Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa, another prominent figure in the industry, praised Khumalo’s unparalleled talent and dedication in the studio: “Winnie was nothing but exceptional. More than anything, she was a talented musician and over-delivered when we were recording.”
Media personality Somizi Mhlongo said Winnie has entered heaven.
“People don’t know that she never touched a drop of alcohol, but when we were together, you wouldn’t tell. That’s how cheerful she was. She didn’t need alcohol, drugs and all those things,” he said.
Her daughter Rethabile and son, Thando, also gave touching tributes to their mum by singing a hymn they used to sing with her at home.
Khumalo was nominated for Record of the Year at the South African Music Awards (SAMA), where she competed alongside artists such as DJ Oskido, Big Nuz, and Liquid Deep. In addition, Khumalo was selected to participate in the Shoprite Checkers Women of the Year competition and received recognition at the Museke Online Africa Music Awards.
She will be laid to rest on Saturday at the Wespark Cemetery.
Khumalo is survived by her son Ntando, her daughter Rethabile, who has followed in her footsteps as a singer, her three grandchildren, her mother, and three sisters.