Cape Town – Kwaito pioneer Doc Shebeleza, born Victor Bogopane, has reportedly passed away at 51 after a prolonged illness.
According to Times Live, the iconic artist was hospitalized following a health scare in June 2024.
BREAKING NEWS | Music industry mourns the loss of Kwaito star Victor Bogopane, known as Doc Shebeleza. The Ebumnandini and Gets Getsa hitmaker passed away at 51 in Fairlands. pic.twitter.com/2iwa0vUJc4
— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 9, 2025
Known for his 1996 debut album S’Kumfete, which featured hits like Kum’nandi and Ebumnandini, Shebeleza was a major influence in the kwaito genre, inspiring artists like Mandoza and Mapaputsi.
He also founded the group Amaskumfete and later focused on philanthropy through his organisation Amaha.
Legendary kwaito artist and producer Doc Shebeleza has passed away.
Born Victor Bogopane, the musician was 51 years old. He had been hospitalized since December. Doc Shebeleza is best known for his hits “Gets Getsa” and “S’kumfete”. #RIPDocShebeleza pic.twitter.com/zf1D1RlXZf
— Pop Pulse (@PopPulseSA) January 9, 2025
His enduring impact was highlighted by Cassper Nyovest’s 2014 hit Doc Shebeleza, cementing his legacy in South African music.
Following the news of his death, messages of condolences have been pouring in on social media.
RISE Mzansi extends condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Victor Bogopane, famously known as #DocShebeleza.
A pioneer of the kwaito genre, Doc Shebeleza’s hits like Ghets Ghetsa, S’kumfete, and Ebumnandini made a lasting impact. His bold voice and influence on South… pic.twitter.com/Tpz9nokLyb
— RISE Mzansi (@Rise_Mzansi) January 9, 2025
Doc Shebeleza, has sadly passed away at the age of 51.
May his soul rest in peace 🕊️🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/gh0sBT1aBD
— The Instigator (@Am_Blujay) January 9, 2025
RIP 🕊
Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza, real name Victor Bogopane, has passed away at the age of 51 after a long illness,
May his Soul Rest in Peace. #RIPDocShebeleza#ChronicleNews pic.twitter.com/STctgA3Llf
— Limpopo Chronicle (@LimChronicle) January 9, 2025
RIP to the kwaito legend Doc Shebeleza pic.twitter.com/XHwBFBPLfz
— Nᴊᴀʙᴜʟᴏ Sᴜᴄᴄᴇss (@njabulo_success) January 9, 2025
A true legend whose unique style of delivery as an artist cannot be mimicked.
Your love for your community is evidenced through your charitable deeds.
Doc Shebeleza, you leave behind an indelible mark. May your soul rest in peace. May your family and friends be comforted in… pic.twitter.com/wdGxnDPjQQ
— The SA Music Awards (@TheSAMAs) January 9, 2025
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