Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, says the passing of the legendary Kwaito artist Victor “Doc Shebeleza” Bogopane today at the age of 51, represents a significant loss for South Africa and the entire music industry.
Shebeleza, who was 51-year-old, passed away on Thursday after a lengthy illness.
“On behalf of the Ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and countless fans whose lives he touched.
South Africa has lost not only a music legend but a compassionate soul whose contributions to our cultural heritage and community upliftment will not be forgotten.
His music, laughter and legacy will continue to resonate in our hearts,” said McKenzie.
The Soweto-born Kwaito legend was hospitalised twice last year, and according to his family, he was supposed to undergo an operation in the next coming weeks.
He released his debut album, Shebeleza, in 1995 and it featured the iconic hit Ghets Ghetsa.
This success was followed by the album S’kumfete, which included another hit track of the same name.
Over the years, he cemented his legacy with three more albums, Tiger (1997), Ebumnandini (2000), and Jiva Yoyo (2001).
Rapper Cassper Nyovest paid tribute to him, by remixing his hit song Doc Shebeleza, which celebrated his lifestyle and impact.
In recognition of his contributions to the genre, Shebeleza was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Mzansi Kwaito and House Music Awards.
Following a semi-retirement from the music industry, the Ebumnandini hitmaker dedicated his life to philanthropy.
He founded the non-profit organisation AMAHA (African Musicians Against HIV/AIDS), which focused on social initiatives for the underprivileged.
Through AMAHA, he contributed to building hundreds of homes for those in need, distributed wheelchairs, and collaborated tirelessly with other legendary artists to uplift communities.
His passion for helping others remained central to his life’s work until his untimely passing.
