Veteran South African gospel artist Solomon Molokoane, better known as Solly Moholo, has died at the age of 65, his management confirmed.
The award-winning gospel icon had been hospitalized for several weeks following an illness during a music tour in Botswana last month.
Moholo, who gained fame in the early 2000s, became a beloved figure in South Africa’s traditional gospel music scene.
His management said he would be remembered for the “healing music he gave us over the years.”
Moholo’s health had deteriorated in recent weeks, with his team revealing that he had suffered a stroke and was experiencing multiple organ failure.
His family had earlier launched a public appeal for financial assistance to cover his medical expenses.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you, on behalf of the Molokoane family, that our beloved legend ‘Solly Moholo’ has sadly passed on,” the statement read, adding that he died in hospital on October 2, 2024.
Moholo was renowned for his hits such as “Die poppe sal dans,” “Ka letsatsi labofelo,” and “Tsoha Jonase.”
Following his death, fellow gospel musicians, friends, and fans paid tribute on social media, with the South African public broadcaster SABC remarking that he had “left an indelible mark in the industry” through his soulful music and energetic live performances.
The African National Congress (ANC) also honored him, with ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula describing Moholo as “a true icon in the South African music industry” and praising his powerful voice and dedication to spreading the word of God.
The South African government added, “You will live forever in the hearts of South Africans Ntate.”
The family has requested privacy as they mourn and make arrangements for his burial.
Source-BBC
