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Family, friends and fans gathered at the Rhema Bible Church in Randburg on Thursday to remember the late award-winning musician, Zahara. The star, real name Bulelwa Mkutukana, died on Monday two weeks after she was admitted to a private hospital with liver complications.
The intimate service was hosted by media personality, Unathi Nkayi, who said that whenever she travelled around Africa, she would hear Zahara's songs being played.
Her former bosses, Sbusiso “DJ Sbu” Leope and Thembinkosi “TK” Nciza, whom she accused of short-changing her when she was signed to their record label, TS Records, also came to pay their respects.
Singer and actor, Kabomo Vilakazi, actress Lusanda Mbane, Goodwill Malinga (Dr Malinga) and Nomcebo Zikode were spotted at the memorial service.
More than anything, Zahara's life and free spirit were celebrated as different people who were close to her took turns to talk about her and paid their tributes.
Vusi Nova (Vusimuzi Nongxa), Ringo Mandlingozi, Ntando Bangani, Buhle Mda, Nathi Mankayi, Brenda Mtambo and Nomcebo Zikode were among the artists who performed.
READ: RIP Zahara | Artist remembered for not only her talent, but also her sense of humour
Media personality Somizi Mhlongo said the the industry owed Zahara an apology as they all had failed her when she needed help.
Mhlongo said:
He recalled how in 2017 he joked about her drinking problem when he hosted the SA Music Awards.
“I made a joke about her drinking and stuff. And only years later, you realise that how you make people feel is very important. I learnt my lesson because I took it for granted as a joke. I realised later that I hurt her. Luckily enough, we had time to reconcile and become friends again, but when she went through a rough time, where was Somizi? Nowhere,” added Mhlongo.
The reality TV star said when Zahara needed help, no one was there to help, but people made fun of her downfall instead. He added:
The late star's band and backing vocalists performed alongside all the musicians while her guitar was placed on stage.
An emotional Nongxa, who was seen going backstage as Mtambo was performing Zahara's Xa Bendingana Mama, said his friendship with Zahara was genuine.
READ: Zahara’s fiancé is expected to take care of her family
He said his fondest memory of her was them cuddling in his bed.
Another memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday in East London in the Eastern Cape before her burial at home in Phumlani on 23 December.
