South Africa mourns Lundi: A gospel icon is gone

South Africa has lost one of its musical greats, with the death of gospel music maestro, Lundi Tyamara, popularly known as Lundi.

The 38 year-old award winning artist passed away after a long struggle with stomach TB and liver complications. He reportedly died peacefully at a hospital.

Lundi had an illustrious music career, he performed, and collaborated with numerous artists from around the continent, and cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s most gifted gospel artists.

The 38 year old star, whose voice and music tugged at the soul, started his music career as a backup singer for gospel singer Rebecca Malope.

“We send heartfelt condolences to the family of Lundi Tyamara, his fans, the EFF whom he shared revolutionary moments with on stage, South Africans and the world at large. Lundi Tyamara was one of us. He sang and performed on EFF stages even when it was unfashionable to do so” EFF.

Producer Tshepo Nzimande helped Lundi launch his first solo album, ‘Mphefumlo Wam’ which won him best Gospel Album. Lundi released hit songs such as Mphefumlo Wami, Mvuleleni Angene, Mniku’dumo, Khuluma Nabo and Inkosi’ Iyayazi.

Lundi during a performance. Photo: Lundi/Facebook

He received several awards in recognition of his remarkable work including South African Music Award (Sama), and a Kora Award among a long list of honours.

“The African National Congress sends its heartfelt condolences to the Tyamara family, Lundi’s friends and the music industry at large. May his soul Rest In Peace.” ANC

Lundi’s health became a point of prayer for the nation, as South African President Jacob Zuma called for prayers to be held. Many have lamented the untimely death of Lundi, reminiscent of the death of superstar Brenda Fassie, who died in 2004 at the age of 39.

The death of Tyamara, has elicited an outpour of condolences from his fans on social media and various organisations.

Undoubtedly a luminary, Lundi will indeed remain one of South Africa’s musical giants and through his music, he leaves an indelible mark and a great legacy, which will continue to inspire future generations. Condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.

Mandoza died at 38
S'fiso Ncwane died at 37
Lundi Tyamarha dies at 38
What's going on? 😮😮#RIPLundi#LundiTyamara

— Nasie (@NasiphiMbava) January 27, 2017

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#LundiTyamara sang from the heart, whenever he sang it was as if he is giving you a piece of his Soul😩 R.I.P 🌻

— Ms. Jane 👑 (@janekathabethe) January 27, 2017

#RIPLundi #LundiTyamara #Lundi
He was a talented artist. He had an amazing voice & stage presence. Death be not proud

— Tumi Sole (@tumisole) January 27, 2017

#EFF: It is not just an artist that has fallen but a revolutionary who used his talent to awaken our people. (8) #LundiTyamara

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) January 27, 2017

I was hoping Lundi would get better weitsi. My heart is so heavy😢.Rest in Peace Lundi. #RIP #LundiTyamara

— IG: BohlokwaMatlosa (@BohlokwaMatlosa) January 27, 2017