Director-General of the Department of Arts and Culture on the passing of Ms
Lebo Mathosa
25 October 2006
On behalf of the arts and culture fraternity, I would like to express
sadness on the passing of Ms Lebo Mathosa. When I heard of the news of
Mathosa's death, I was so shocked that I called colleagues and friends to
confirm if it was true. Regrettably all of them confirmed that indeed Mathosa
was no more! She, together with fellow Boom Shaka members, revolutionised the
South African music scene with their hit, "It's about time to listen to Boom
Shaka" in the early 1990s. Despite their age and type of music, Boom Shaka's
beat and dancing skills brought happiness to many of us.
Mathosa went on to pursue a solo career in which she reached even greater
heights. Young as she was, she matured with age. We all know of her various
collaborations with big names of the industry. The Department of Arts and
indeed the broader cultural movement of our country expected more from Mathosa.
In recent years, our country's artists have made their contribution to the age
of hope by winning several international awards. It is these developments that
suggest to us that Mathosa was still going to contribute to the development of
our country. We offer our condolences and support to Mathosa's family, friends
and colleagues. In salutation to one of our beloved daughters, we say, "gone
too soon"! Robala ka khutso kgarebe ya Afrika! Thobela!
Enquiries:
Mack Lewele
Tel: (012) 441 3083
Cell: 082 450 5076
Issued by: Department of Arts and Culture
25 October 2006
