Media personality and businessman DJ Sbu has remembered late South African singer Bulelwa “Zahara” Mkutukana on her birthday, sharing an emotional tribute to the award-winning musician.
Taking to social media, DJ Sbu wrote: “Happy birthday Bulelwa, you are dearly missed.”
DJ Sbu played an important role in Zahara’s rise to fame after discovering her alongside TS Records co-founder TK Nciza in 2010. The singer went on to become one of South Africa’s most celebrated Afro-soul artists, gaining national recognition following the release of her debut album, Loliwe, in 2011.
Their relationship, however, was not without difficulties. Following Zahara’s departure from TS Records, disagreements emerged over alleged unpaid royalties. Zahara claimed she had not received royalties she was owed, while DJ Sbu repeatedly denied wrongdoing and maintained that the label had arranged for her publishing and music royalties to be paid directly to her.
Despite their public disagreements, DJ Sbu previously described Zahara as a younger sister and spoke about the memories they shared during their years working together.
“We had great moments; she was like my younger sister,” he said in an interview following her death.
In December 2023, DJ Sbu also spoke about the pain of losing the singer, saying he wanted people to remember her as someone who was full of life, caring, kind and funny. He also visited her family to pay his respects.
Zahara died on 11 December 2023 at the age of 36 after a period of illness. Her death was confirmed by her family, who said she had passed away surrounded by loved ones. Her cause of death was not disclosed publicly at the time.
The singer left behind a lasting musical legacy, with songs such as Loliwe, Phendula and Ndiza remaining among the memorable works of her career. She also received numerous accolades, including 17 South African Music Awards.
DJ Sbu’s birthday message is another reminder of the impact Zahara had on those who worked with her and the many South Africans who continue to celebrate her music.
