“The Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition mourns the death of a true South African music icon – Busi Mhlongo.

“As a musician, performer and songwriter, Busi had no peers – and, indeed, has been the inspiration for so many powerful female solo artists who have released music over the past few years.

“As a Zulu, Busi managed that difficult but admirable feat of creating music that continued the lineage of the music she grew up with (Maskanda, Mbaqanga) in the most powerful way – yet delivering it to an audience that stretched from Jozi to Paris and beyond. Through albums like ‘Urban Zulu’, Busi was able to create music that was Zulu in its roots yet global in its reach – and it rightfully earned her a devoted audience both here and abroad.

“Her strength as a songwriter and her mesmerising live performances only added to her array of musical gifts – together adding up to an artist whose impact on her audience, her peers and the South African music industry was considerable and will not be forgotten.

“On behalf of the Board of Moshito, I would like to express our condolences to Busi’s family and friends at this sad time.

“As an organisation committed to preserving the musical legacy of South Africa whilst working towards the future, we will play our part in keeping Busi’s music alive in the eyes of the South African and international music industries.”

Andre le Roux, Chairman, Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition.