Bulelwa Mkutukana, renowned as Zahara, left an indelible mark on the South African music landscape with her soulful voice and poignant songwriting. Beyond the spotlight, her journey was anchored in the embrace of family, with parents Mlamli and Nokhaya Mkutukana playing pivotal roles in nurturing her early passion for music.
Advertisement
Zahara, born on November 9, 1987, in the Phumlani Informal Settlement outside of East London in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, emerged as a musical prodigy. Her debut album, “Loliwe” (2011), under the banner of TS Records, swiftly attained double platinum status, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
As the sixth of seven children, Zahara’s formative years were shaped by the vibrancy of the Eastern Cape. The Phumlani Informal Settlement, her childhood home, witnessed the blossoming of a talent that would captivate audiences across the nation. The familial bonds forged in the Mkutukana household laid the foundation for Zahara’s artistic journey.
Zahara’s early exposure to music unfolded in the corridors of her school’s choir, where her formidable voice stood out even at the tender age of six. Recognizing her exceptional talent, she joined the senior choir by the age of nine, marking the beginning of a musical odyssey.
Her stage name, “Zahara,” meaning “blooming flower,” encapsulated the essence of her vibrant career. In her childhood, she carried the endearing nickname “Spinach,” a testament to the affection with which she was known.
Advertisement
Zahara’s parents, Mlamli and Nokhaya Mkutukana, provided the nurturing environment where her musical aspirations could flourish. Their support became the bedrock upon which Zahara’s dreams were built, and the familial love and encouragement fueled her ascent in the music industry.
Her music, often classified as “Afro-soul,” resonated with audiences, combining elements influenced by Tracy Chapman and India Arie. Zahara’s career began with humble roots, busking on the streets of East London before catching the attention of TS Records.
Over the years, Zahara’s albums, including “Phendula” (2013), “Country Girl” (2015), “Mgodi” (2017), and “Nqaba Yam” (2021), showcased her versatility and garnered critical acclaim.
Amid her musical triumphs, Zahara faced personal challenges, including the tragic loss of her younger brother in 2014. Despite periods of adversity, Zahara continued to share her gift with the world, leaving an indomitable legacy.
Zahara’s untimely passing on December 11, 2023, marked the end of a chapter in South African music. Her parents, Mlamli and Nokhaya Mkutukana, now bear the weight of the loss, yet their enduring support remains a testament to the bond that shaped Zahara’s extraordinary journey.
As the world remembers Zahara for her musical prowess, it’s also an opportunity to acknowledge the parents who provided the nurturing soil from which a blooming flower emerged, casting its petals across the vast landscape of South African music.
Leave a Reply