Parliament, Friday, 2 October 2026 – The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences and the Creative Industries, Mr Makhi Feni, has said that it is with a heavy heart that the committee sends its heartfelt condolences to the family of veteran musician Babsy Mlangeni.
The committee sends its deep and heartfelt condolences not only to members of the family, friends and relatives, but also to the music industry.
“We can only celebrate the life of a legend whose distinct voice remains in the minds of many South African music lovers. Babsy was our very own Stevie Wonder and a proud artist who never let disability determine his destiny.”
“Together with other legends such as Lazarus Kgakgudi, Steve Kekana and many others, they dominated the music scene of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s—an era that coincided with the height of apartheid in our country. They were artists-cum-activists who used their music to expose what white people were doing in our country. Their ability to use cultural expression to portray the ills of apartheid-era South Africa will never be forgotten.”
Media reports revealed that Mr Babsy Mlangeni had died at the age of 83 following a short illness. At the time of his death, he had compiled a solid music catalogue that could neither be forgotten nor emulated.
“Babsy Mlangeni is a legend, and we should celebrate that he lived among us and, importantly, that he was South African. He has left us a treasure that we can return to at any moment. His songs are timeless classics through which his legacy will live on for his grandchildren.”
The committee says to the family: thuthuzelekani.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION SCIENCES AND CREATIVE INDUSTRIES, MR MAKHI FENI.
For media enquiries, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Sibongile Maputi (Mr)
Cell: 081 052 6060
E-mail: smaputi@parliament.gov.za
Arrange a tour