Veteran South African gospel artist Solomon Molokoane, widely known as Solly Moholo, passed away at the age of 65 on October 2, 2024. The acclaimed musician had been hospitalized for several weeks after falling ill during a music tour in Botswana in September, 2024.
His health worsened while en route to the residence where he was staying after his performances. The news was shared by his management through a Facebook post which read:
“It is with great sadness that we are informing you on behalf of the Molokoane family, that is Solly Moholo's family, that our beloved legend "Solly Moholo" has sadly passed on. He passed on 2nd October 2024 whilst in hospital. Solly Moholo was hospitalized after falling in following his pre album launch tour in Botswana.”
The post continued:
“He will be sorely missed. May his laughter continue to echo the walls of heaven. Let us remember him fondly for the healing music he gave us over the years.”
The family has asked for privacy and time to grieve as they made arrangements for his funeral. In September 2024, it was reported that the gospel artist suffered a stroke and was facing multiple organ failure. His family made a public appeal for funds to help cover his medical expenses.
Rising to prominence in the early 2000s, he became a well-known figure in South African traditional gospel music. Moholo was celebrated for popular songs like Die Poppe Sal Dans, Ka Letsatsi Labofelo, and Tsoha Jonase.
The African National Congress (ANC) recognized him as an iconic figure in the South African music industry, noting his powerful voice and dedication to uplifting others through his music.
Solly Moholo was known for his trademark ZCC uniform
According to Music Africa, Solly Moholo was born in Soshanguve, Pretoria, and was a devoted member of the Zion Christian Church. Moreover, he was recognized for his ZCC uniform and unique dance style.
He mentored artists like Winnie Mashaba and Johannes Mamabolo and was an outspoken critic of piracy and xenophobia while supporting the ANC. He allegedly survived a hostage situation in 2009 due to the gunmen's admiration for his music. One of his famous albums is Mandela O Llela Bana.
During a conversation with The Venting Podcast, Solly Moholo said there were situations wherein he wanted to take his own life. He reflected on his feelings of depression after his last album's release in 2017, noting a significant decline in gig opportunities.
He spent time in isolation, often watching television, and felt heavy-hearted. He admitted to considering suicide, recalling a moment when he briefly put Rattex in his mouth and contemplated borrowing a gun. Moholo expressed that the struggle was intense and he felt completely alone during that period.
Solly Moholo shared that kneeling and praying helped him navigate his difficult times. He expressed that he was no longer the person people might have thought he was, as he discovered the strength of prayer.
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During the conversation, he emphasized the importance of perseverance and encouraged others to pray for the world, the government, and peace without violence.
Rest in peace, Solly Moholo!
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