Solomon Majafela Molokoane (April 15, 1959 – October 2, 2024), best known as Solly Moholo, was a South African gospel singer, and was both a member of the ANC and the highly popular Zion Christian Church as a Christian singer.[1] He was known for his unique blend of traditional gospel sounds and modern township influences.[2] He rose to fame in the early 2000s following the release of his album Ba Mmitsa Tsotsi in 2001.
Early life & Career
Moholo was born and raised in the township of Soshanguve in Pretoria, Gauteng. He grew up in a religious and christian family and he deeply associated his musical career with attire similar to the one of ZCC and dance known as "Mokhuku". His musical career started in the early 2000.
Notable Incidents
According to reports, In 2009, 4 gunman held Moholo and his 2 friends hostage at night in his home studio at Soshanguve, Pretoria demanding money, one of the gunman is said to have told the other three robbers to spare him life as he love his music.[3]
Legacy
Solly Moholo was considered a pivotal figure in South African gospel music.[2] His music was acclaimed and resonated with millions across the nations of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Lesotho.[2] He was descriped to have used his music to fight crime by the premier of Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi amongst others.[4]
Solly Moholo served as a mentor to Winnie Mashaba.[5] Winnie Mashaba descriped him as an industry mentor who gave opportunities to other gospel singers.[6]
Death
On September 6, 2024, Solly Moholo's team released a statement saying he had fallen while on tour in Botswana and asked for donations.[7] Solly Moholo passed away on October 2, 2024, while in hospital, aged 65. It was reported that he suffered from multiple organ failure and a stroke, which is reported as the cause of his death.[8] He was hospitalized following the pre-release of his latest album, Wubani O zo Pepeza.[8][9] His death has been reported and spread all over South African social media and popular news including the SABC and eNCA. Moholo also received condolences from president Cyril Ramaphosa, the ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula, Sony Music South Africa and Spotify Africa amongst other public figures.[10][11] His funeral was held at Akasia Hall in Pretoria, Gauteng, and was laid to rest at Zandfontein Cemetery.[12] His funeral was attended by Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi and Mzwakhe Mbuli who were the speakers JJ Tabane, amongst others.[13] His funeral was broadcast live on the SABC.[14]
Discography
Studio albums
Jesu Ba Mmitsa Tsotsi published by EMI Music Distribution
Wubani O Zo Pepeza published by Sound African Recordings
Oa Ntaela Moya published by Sony Music
Sedi Laka Mpontshe Tsela by Sony Music
Motlhang Ke Kolobetswa'Die Poppe Sal Dans' by Sony Music
Tsoha Jonase Nice Time Ya Bolaya by Sony Music
Difofu Dikgopela Merapelo published by Sony Music
Ba Mo Kobile Kerekeng published by EMI Music Distribution