The African National Congress (ANC) joins the entire nation in mourning the passing of acclaimed composer and icon of choral music, Professor Mzilikazi Khumalo, who passed on yesterday after a long illness.
A Linguistic professor, celebrated composer and custodian of choral music, Prof Mzilikazi leaves behind a rich and solid legacy in the arts and culture fraternity. He will be remembered for his role as part of the committee that was tasked with the responsibility to amalgamate the Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika prayer with Die Stem to produce a National Anthem for a new democratic nation.
His first song, composed in 1959, called Mangificwa Ukufa, remained popular even in the late 1990s. He will be remembered for other iconic choral songs that he composed such as uShaka ka Senzagakhona, Princess Magogo ka Dinuzulu, Ugqozi and Ibhange Lama Africa among others.
Khumalo was indeed a fountain of wisdom and human encyclopedia on indigenous music, and was always prepared to share his rich knowledge and wisdom generously.
He was able to capture the history of our country and to tell the story of our nation through music.
He is credited for his role in preserving choral music. For this, the country, especially the music industry and the entire arts and culture fraternity owes him an eternal debt of gratitude.
The ANC conveys its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, the academic world, the music industry and the people of South Africa as a whole. We hope they will find solace in the knowledge that the whole nation shares in their grief. We wish them strength and fortitude during this difficult time.
May his soul find eternal peace
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ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS
Enquiries:
Pule Mabe
National Spokesperson
071 623 4975
