This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
On July 17, 2019, the music world lost a legendary figure when Jonny Clegg, a British-born musician, passed away at his home in Johannesburg after a four-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Described as a 'beloved, inspirational and heroic voice' by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Clegg was a pioneer in blending Zulu rhythms from his adopted South Africa with Western styles, all while defying apartheid segregation laws.
His music was a powerful symbol of resistance against the apartheid government, which censored his work. One of his most famous tracks, 'Asimbonanga' (Zulu for 'We have not seen him'), released in 1987, paid tribute to Nelson Mandela, who was then in jail, and was outlawed because any reference to the anti-apartheid leader was illegal.
Despite the challenges he faced, Clegg continued to create music that inspired and uplifted his community. His legacy lives on through his music, which remains an important part of South Africa's cultural heritage.
"He was just a gift from God," said Sipho Mchunu, co-founder of Clegg's first band 'Juluka', formed when Clegg was only 17. A private funeral service will be held for the celebrated musician, but a service will also be arranged for the public to pay their respects, his manager Roddy Quin said in a statement.
