Bulelwa Mkutukana, widely recognized in the music artistry both in South Africa and Africa as Zahara, which means “blooming flower” was a fascinating music crooner known from devolving highly emotional messages in the musical genre Afro-soul in her native language Xhosa and English.
Early Life and Musical Genesis
Born Bulelwa Mkutukana, on 9 November 1987, the sixth of seven children, in the Phumlani informal settlement of East London in Eastern Cape, South Africa raised with her parents Nokyahana and Mlamli Mkutukana.
In comparison with many other successful artists, she began singing the school choir at the age of six as the lead singer and was asked to move to the senior choir due to her strong voice.
Initially she was known as Spinach due to her undying love for vegetables.
Musical Journey
Zahara began her music career busking on the streets of East London and was signed to the music label TS Records by TJ Nciza.
Zahara’s music is described as Afro-soul with music styles popularized by Tracy Chapman and India Arie.
Discography
- Loliwe in 2011
- The Beginning Live in 2012
- Phendula in 2013
- Country Girl in 2015
- Mgodib in 2017
- Nqaba Yam in 2019
Death
She died in the hospital on December, 2023 but the exact cause of her death is unknown.
Awards and Recognition
Zahara earned herself massive followers and admiration which accounted for her rewards.
She earned seventeen South African Music Awards, three Metro FM Awards including one Nigeria Entertainment Award.
written by Ruth Ama Onumah
