South African singer Lira – real name Lerato Moipone Molapo paid tribute to the late award-winning Afro-pop star Bulelwa Mkutukana who is best known as Zahara as seen in her Instagram post shared on Wednesday, 13 December – this comes after a family statement confirmed she passed away on Monday.

Zahara passed away on 11 December at 36. Weeks before her death, a family statement confirmed that she had been admitted to hospital after experiencing physical pains. “We mourn the passing of Zahara. It is with heavy hearts and deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend, Zahara… She was a pure light, and an even purer heart, in this world… a gift, and a blessing to us and countless people around the world,” the statement read.

The beloved musician was hospitalised, reportedly with liver complications, BBC reported. In the past, she has also opened up about her battle with alcohol addiction, the publication added. In a post, Lira shared a heartfelt story about the late Loliwe hitmaker.

“She [Zahara] called me about two months ago – she’s never called me before – she said my stroke scared her. She thanked me for impacting her – she sang my songs to me. She was so sweet. I never thought that she’d be gone so soon. I went through denial when I first heard,” Lira said.

“Ooh Bulelwa. It is what it is. You had an iconic voice! You had a unique way of telling stories through music! The South African music industry thanks you!!! You’ve found peace now – I hope God’s love envelops you and your family. Till we meet again,” she added.