Moholo fell critically ill in August while performing in neighbouring Botswana. He was promoting his eagerly awaited album, “Wubani O zo Pepeza,” when he was hit by a stroke.
After being repatriated back home, he spent several weeks fighting for his life in the ICU before ultimately succumbing to the effects of the stroke.
Moholo’s profound faith has been the bedrock of his artistic expression and has captivated fans nationwide and beyond.
Solomon Molokoane, popularly known as Solly Moholo, has always been a household name in South African traditional gospel music.
He has left an indelible mark in the industry with his soulful gospel music, energetic live performances and iconic ZCC regalia.
Born in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, Moholo’s unwavering faith and signature of “Mokhukhu dance” solidified his position as a traditional gospel trailblazer.
With a career spanning decades, Moholo has become synonymous with uplifting, spirit-filled gospel music that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Tragically, while performing in Botswana, the renowned musician suffered a devastating stroke, complicated by multiple organ failure.
The severity of his condition demanded emergency brain surgery, sparking widespread concern among fans and fellow musicians.
“Talking about Solly Moholo, you are talking about a legend that is under what I can say or what I can call traditional gospel, Zion gospel. We know that the headquarters of the ZCC, Zion Christian Church, is here in our province, Moria. Solly Moholo’s fan base is in this province. So you go to the taverns, you will find them playing Solly Moholo, the rhythm of the mixture of his music. So, we love him, he’s the legend,” says Limpopo Artists Movement Chairperson Mphoza Mashabela.
The movement says it is concerned that music compilers in various radio stations and music promoters only appreciate artists after their deaths.
“Solly Mohlolo’s genre or music brings people closer to the lord. Go to taxi ranks, you’ll find that every taxi plays his music. But let me tell you about the sad part, air play. Solly Moholo has been quiet in most of the radio stations,” adds Mashabela.
One of the gospel musicians who worked closely with Moholo in some of his albums, says he learnt a lot from him.
Terance Seabela says Moholo was always willing to uplift upcoming musicians.
“I had the priviledge of working closely with the legendary Solly Moholo, whose music resonated deeply with the nation. His spiritually gifted talent brought many closer to their faith, using humour and wit to convey the gospel message. Solly’s unique blend of entertainment and spirituality made his music a beacon of hope, healing and inspiration for people of all ages.”
--SABC--
