Staff Writer and ANA
CONDOLENCES have continued pouring in for Umbhaqanga music icon and Soul Brothers lead singer David Masondo, who died at the weekend.
Masondo, 67, died on Sunday at the Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg after he was admitted for fatigue and exhaustion.
President Jacob Zuma said Masondo’s death was a loss to the whole nation.
“The whole nation mourns this talented icon of our country, whose music not only put South Africa on the global world stage but also could be heard in the streets, in the valleys and all corners of our country. It was music for the whole family,” Zuma said.
“We wish to convey, on behalf of government and the entire nation, our deepest condolences on the passing of this cultural hero. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa: “The group (Soul Brothers) formed in 1974, during the darkest times in the history of our country. They entertained the working class communities and the rural poor – speaking to their challenges of the day and giving them hope.”
He said South African and cultural workers around the globe had been dealt “a heavy blow” by Masondo’s death.
“The group produced more than 30 albums and remained the most successful proponents of the Umbhaqanga or traditional sound which dominated South African urban music for over three decades,” said Mthethwa.
Masondo started his musical career by doing performances in townships with the Groovy Boys. He later co-founded Soul Brothers, the band that successfully popularised the South African soul concept, Umbhaqanga.
“Most of their albums achieved gold status. They also operate their own successful recording, publishing and entertainment companies.”
The group enjoyed a massive commercial success and acclaim. Amongst its success was to record an album with another South African who was in exile at the time in Botswana,” said Mthethwa.