Mapaputsi, aged 45, rose to fame with his 2001 hit single Izinja, which became a Kwaito anthem and firmly established him as a pioneer of the genre.

His energetic style and impactful lyrics resonated with millions, cementing his place in the history of South African music.

He is reported to have been ill for more than a year.

Industry colleague Vusi Leeuw says Mapaputsi passed on Thursday.

--SABC--