AWARD-WINNING South African musician Simon Nkabinde, popularly known as Mahlathini, died on Thursday. According to a statement released by Gallo Music, Mahlathini had been ill for some time. His popular group, Mahlatini and the Mahotella Queens, has delighted music lovers from all over the world since the sixties. Mahlathini has been credited for the international recognition of Mbaqanga music and during his career he performed with many acclaimed international artists, including Stevie Wonder and Sting.