Gospel star Winnie Mashaba is mourning the loss of her long time mentor, Solomon Molokoane, also known as Solly Moholo, who passed away on October 2 at the age of 65.
In a moving tribute on social media, Mashaba reflected on the role Moholo played in her early career.
“I was very young and clueless about the music industry. My mom handed me over to Malome Solly Moholo, he trained me and guided me throughout. It’s so painful to say Rest In Peace, Malome Solly. Until we meet again on the other side of the world.”
I was very young and clueless about the music industry. My mom handed me over to Malome Solly Moholo, he trained me and guided me throughout. It’s so painful to say Rest In Peace Malome Solly 💔💔💔💔😭😭😭
Until we meet again on the other side of the world. pic.twitter.com/x29Prn57eV— Dr Winnie Mashaba (@DrWinnieMashaba) October 2, 2024
Known for his electrifying performances and the signature ‘mokhukhu jive,’ Solly Moholo was a giant in the gospel world.
His most recent work included the single “Wubani o zo Pepeza,” released in September 15.
However, during a pre-launch tour in Botswana, Moholo became ill and was hospitalised shortly after.
His management team released a statement to inform the public about this death.
“Dear Solly Moholo Fans, 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”.
Among his many popular songs, “Banaka Nako Ea Me E Haufi” stood out for its heartfelt lyrics, reflecting on life’s final moments and the afterlife:
Among his many popular songs, “Banaka Nako Ea Me E Haufi” (“My Children, My Time Is Near”) stands out, and its lyrics have taken on new meaning since his passing.
In the song, Moholo contemplates his final days on earth and the transition to the afterlife.
Lines like “Ka letsatsi laka la bofelo geke tloga molefaseng” (“On my last days on earth”) and “Mangeloi atla go ntsaya, go ntsaya ba mpitsa ko legodimong!” (“The angels will take me, calling me to heaven!”) resonate deeply in light of his death.
The lyric “Morena ao mophelegetse ka thabo le ka kgotso ke ya gae” (“Oh God, accompany me with happiness and peace, I am going home”) offers a comforting message of peace and faith, symbolising Moholo’s acceptance of the afterlife.
The family has requested privacy as they mourn and prepare for his burial. Details of the memorial and funeral will be shared in due course.
