South African opera and jazz singer, Sibongile Khumalo, a recipient of the country’s second-highest national order, died on Thursday, her family said a statement.
The 63-year-old singer, born in Soweto not far from late President Nelson Mandela’s home, sang at the leader’s 1994 inauguration. She also performed internationally, including at London’s famed Royal Albert Hall.
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Khumalo received the presidential Order of Ikhamanga in Silver in 2008, for her contribution to arts and culture. A trained soprano, she boasted a wide vocal range, while her oeuvre included European classics, African folk and choral music, as well as modern jazz.
Her family said the cause of her death was a stroke following a lengthy illness.
Source: Ghanaguardian.com