Vuyo Mokoena

He started from humble beginnings of Duduza, near Nigel where he stayed as a child and was determined to be a top music performer, though his peers forced him to go to soccer matches where he was made a goalkeeper.

He said his mind was never on the pitch because he knew his talent was in the studio, composing and singing.

He started with an amateur Afro-pop group Melodi in Springs, on the East Rand.

He then became a professional musician, joining the popular group Pure Magic in the 90s.

Before making an impact in the late 90s, Vuyo was known as gospel diva Rebecca Malope’s associate and together they handed a number of the artist’s projects. He even featured in several albums for the award-winning gospel queen.

On the side he was also a prominent member being lead singer for his brother Peter’s project- Pure Magic

At the start of the millennium, he left the CCP Records stable which houses Malope to venture into a solo career, which became a huge success.

He released albums which had hits such as; ‘Wena uyikholwa ngempela?’ (Imisebenzi Iyaw’bonakala), ‘Banokuthula Abangcwele’ etc.

He was one of the few sought- after performing male artists and featured in several albums for a great number of artists such as Lord Comforters, Lundi Tymara, Nontando, Sipho Makhabane, Jabu Hlongwane, Frans Dlamini and Mzwakhe Myeni (locally).

Vuyo counted American psalmist Donnie McClurkin and fellow South African legendary gospel singer and Pastor Benjamin Dube, a personal friend as his favourite musicians.

Mokoena said: “Donnie McClurkin is one of the few musicians left in the world who will make you to appreciate God, while at the same time make you dance to his music praising His name. I grew up listening to Pastor Benjamin Dube and he inspired me to be a singer as well. We have become close friends and he has helped to shape my music career.”

Mokoena died at his home on 23 May 2008. He began experiencing health problems in February and was admitted to the Linksfield Clinic.

Vuyo Mokoena, one of SA's best-known gospel singers and multiple award-winning star, died at his home in Brakpan yesterday after losing his battle against brain cancer. He was also diagnosed with leakeamia.

Popular for hits like Njalo and Umoya Wam' with Rebecca Malope, Mokoena had been hospitalised after he complained of blinding headaches.

He was recently discharged but continued to have regular radiation treatment.

Mokoena is survived by his wife Tebogo and four children