Sibongile Khumalo, with a voice that has enchanted audiences both in her native South Africa and across the world, was a celebrated mezzo-soprano and a towering figure in the South African music scene until her untimely passing in January 2021. Born in Orlando West, Soweto, in September 1957 into a musical family, Khumalo's talent was cultivated from a young age. Her father, Khabi Mngoma, was a respected music professor and her upbringing was steeped in a rich tapestry of musical influences, which helped shape her into a versatile performer. Khumalo was as comfortable with operatic arias and lieder as she was with jazz standards and indigenous African music, making her a unique and beloved artist among diverse audiences.

Throughout her distinguished career, Sibongile Khumalo received numerous honors, including the Standard Bank Young Artist Award in 1993, and her musical journey was marked by a series of critically acclaimed albums. "Breath of Life" (1999) showcased her capacity to blend classical techniques with contemporary styles, encapsulating the depth and range of her vocal prowess. With "Live @ S.A.B.C." (2000), listeners were treated to the power and intimacy of her live performances. Her self-titled release "Sibongile Khumalo" (1996) is a testament to her soulful artistry, featuring both sophisticated arrangements and moving interpretations. "Quest" (2002), continued to build on her reputation as an artist who transcends genre boundaries, while "Ancient Evening" (1996), cemented her place as an interpreter of stories and emotions that resonate across time and cultures. Her loss has left a void in the music world, but her rich legacy of uniting tradition and innovation through her music lives on.