South Africa is mourning the death of legendary musician Babsy Mlangeni, who died at the age of 83 following a short illness.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister Peace Mabe have joined tributes to the veteran musician, whose career spanned nearly six decades and helped shape South Africa’s musical and cultural landscape.
Mlangeni, born Bernard Mlangeni in Orlando East, Soweto, in 1943, developed his musical talents at the Athlone School for the Blind in Cape Town, where he learned to play the guitar.
He went on to establish himself as a singer, guitarist and composer at a time when musicians living with visual disabilities faced significant barriers in the industry.
His distinctive voice and music, which often reflected the experiences of ordinary people, resonated across generations, languages and communities.
“South Africa has lost a musical giant, a pioneer and a voice that became part of the soundtrack of our lives,” said McKenzie on Friday.
The Minister said Mlangeni had a rare ability to connect with audiences regardless of language.
“That was Babsy’s gift: he did not need people to speak the same language to feel the same emotion. His music carried warmth, romance, resilience and the experiences of ordinary people.
“It was music that people could dance to, sing along to, remember their youth through and pass from one generation to the next,” said McKenzie.
Beyond his music, Mlangeni became an example of what could be achieved by people living with disabilities. He also mentored younger musicians, including the late South African music star Steve Kekana.
“Babsy’s story was never only about music. It was about determination, talent and breaking barriers. He did not allow blindness to define the limits of his life or his talent. Instead, he became an example to many and helped open the door for others,” McKenzie said.
Mlangeni enjoyed significant recognition during his career. He won the Black Music Award for Best Male Vocalist in 1975 and again in 1976.
In 2017, he received a South African Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the country’s music industry.
His later years continued to feature prominently in South Africa’s cultural events.
In July 2025, Mlangeni performed alongside other legendary musicians at a departmental tribute concert honouring Mama Abigail Kubeka. Deputy Minister Mabe delivered remarks at the event.
At the 2025 National Arts and Culture Awards, McKenzie presented Mlangeni with the Artist Living With Disability Award.
“It was a particular honour for me to bestow that award upon Babsy. There is something important about giving our legends their flowers while they can still smell them. Babsy received that recognition, and I will always be grateful that we had the opportunity to celebrate the man, the musician and the legacy while he was still here to receive it,” said McKenzie.
Mabe said Mlangeni’s contribution extended beyond entertainment and formed part of South Africa’s cultural history.
“He was part of the living history of our creative sector, and his contribution helped shape the sound and cultural identity of our nation. His life was a testament to the power of music to tell our stories, preserve our heritage and bring people together across generations,” she said.
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