RIP: SA musician Babsy Mlangeni dies aged 83

South African musician Babsy Mlangeni has died at the age of 83 after suffering a short illness.

RIP: BABSY MLANGENI DIES AT 83

South Africa is mourning Babsy Mlangeni, the celebrated singer, guitarist and composer who has died at 83. Mlangeni’s passing comes after suffering a short illness. He reportedly passed away on Thursday night 1 October.

He was born as Bernard Mlangeni in Orlando East, Soweto, in 1943. Mlangeni lost his sight as a child. He went on to attend the Athlone School for the Blind in Bellville, Western Cape, where he learned to play the guitar. That instrument carried him through a career spanning nearly six decades, at a time when visually impaired musicians faced significant barriers.

In 1962 he became a founding member of the All-Rounders. Their 1967 debut album, Coming Home, helped define a sound later known as South African soul. He then built a household name as a solo artist, with hits including Sala Emma, Bua Nnete, Botsotso, Umadlembathini and Special Angel. Sala Emma, reportedly inspired by his wife, became a South African classic. His music crossed language lines, with songs in isiZulu, isiXhosa and Setswana.

He received a South African Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, and another Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Arts and Culture Awards in 2025.

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR THE LATE MUSICIAN

Tributes have poured in from across the country. President Cyril Ramaphosa also paid tribute to the musician,

“Heartfelt condolences to his family, fans and the music fraternity. uBaba Mlangeni leaves us with a catalogue of hits like Sala Emma and other creations that made him an icon and inspired the creative sector in our country during the course of six decades. We pay tribute to the soothing and beautiful tunes he contributed in many languages to our musical heritage as we remember his outstanding talent and creativity,” read the tweet.

With Heritage Month still ringing in our ears, it is a particularly sad moment for us to acknowledge the passing of our beloved township soul pioneer Babsy Mlangeni, aged 83.

Heartfelt condolences to his family, fans and the music fraternity.

uBaba Mlangeni leaves us with a… pic.twitter.com/PBPcUFek9x

— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 2, 2026

Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile said Mlangeni’s music became part of the “soundtrack of the lives of generations of South Africans”.

Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe described him as part of the living history of the creative sector. The South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) called him an influential voice in South African music. Maile also credited him as a mentor to younger artists, including the late falsetto star Steve Kekana.

Away from the stage, Mlangeni challenged assumptions about disability and inspired other visually impaired artists. Fans have also sent their condolences to the family and celebrated his life.