Award-winning gospel star Vuyo Mokoena has died, his record company, Big Fish Music, confirmed on Friday.
According to Big Fish Music, Mokoena died at 5.30am on Friday.
Mokoena was admitted to hospital after experiencing blinding headaches. Tests subsequently revealed that he had developed a brain tumour.
Before making an impact in the late 1990s, Mokoena was known as gospel diva Rebecca Malope’s associate until he decided to embark on a solo career.
He began his music career with amateur Afro-pop group Melodi in Springs on the East Rand. He then became a professional musician, joining popular group Pure Magic in the 1990s.
Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) national chairperson Zanele kaMagwaza-Msibi expressed sadness at the death of Mokoena.
”Today I am truly sad. Vuyo Mokoena was like a brother to me. He was a fantastic person. He was a great entertainer. He was an unashamed member and friend of the IFP. He will be truly missed.”
She said Mokoena’s family could be proud in the knowledge that he had lived out his calling.
”His Christian faith was the foundation of all he did. He was a great inspiration to all of us in the IFP.” — Sapa