According to his close friends, the singer, born at KwaLanga in Cape Town, has been sick for a while and is in desperate need of essentials.

They said they are also struggling to find his family.

 
A close friend and member of the Cultural & Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (Ccifsa) in Gauteng, Thembinkosi Khumalo said: “He is sick from a stroke and brain tumour. He’s been sick for a while and has already lost his ability to speak. “He is currently in hospital fighting for his life. We are currently trying to locate his family and it’s proving to be difficult. But for now we are pleading with Good Samaritans and his fellow colleagues in the industry to assist so he can get help. Any kind of help will be appreciated.”

Mlamli started singing at an early age and joined the music industry in the 80s, having been inspired by the late Brenda Fassie. He left Cape Town for Joburg to seek fame and fortune and joined Brenda in 1987 as a backup singer and dancer.

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He was later signed by Sounds of Soweto and in 1990, he released his debut album titled Who Cares. This album was followed by many other albums and hits including Mangoane, Sis Mandlovu, Pizza Yamadoda and Amamenemene. Mlamli also worked with Slam Factory, Mshoza, Chicco and others on stage and in studio. He also worked with many producers and labels including Arthur Mafokate and 999 Music, as well as Phil Hollis. He performed Brenda’s hits at many shows.

“When we help others, we are not only improving their lives, but also improving our own lives. Studies have shown that when we do good for other people, it releases endorphins in the brain that make us feel good about ourselves and increase our overall happiness. So, not only do we help the people around us, but we also benefit from it too,” said Thembinkosi.

He said that anyone who is willing to help with anything can talk to him directly on 072 476 2109.

Another singer, Ivory “Qwathikazi” Sikepe, said: “I know Mlamli and I can confirm he is not well. I also visited him in hospital and it’s not looking good. Right now he needs all the support he can get from us as his colleagues.”