Pretoria:Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister Peace Mabe have expressed their condolences following the death of Babsy Mlangeni, a revered South African musician who died at the age of 83 after a short illness.

According to South African Government News Agency, Minister McKenzie paid tribute to Mlangeni, who was born Bernard Mlangeni in Orlando East, Soweto in 1943, and whose career spanned nearly six decades. Mlangeni, who attended the Athlone School for the Blind in Cape Town, overcame significant obstacles to establish himself as a singer, guitarist, and composer. His music, characterized by its warmth and emotional depth, resonated across generations, languages, and communities.

Minister McKenzie emphasized Mlangeni's ability to connect with people through music, noting that his songs were about the experiences of ordinary people and could be enjoyed across various cultural contexts. Mlangeni's achievements also included mentoring younger musicians, such as the late Steve Kekana, and challenging societal perceptions about the capabilities of people with disabilities.

Mlangeni's accolades include winning the Black Music Award for Best Male Vocalist in 1975 and 1976, and receiving a South African Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. In July 2025, he performed at a tribute concert for Mama Abigail Kubeka, and was honored with the Artist Living With Disability Award at the National Arts and Culture Awards.

Minister McKenzie highlighted the importance of recognizing such legends during their lifetimes and expressed gratitude for being able to celebrate Mlangeni's contributions while he was still alive.

Deputy Minister Mabe described Mlangeni as a vital part of the nation's creative history, whose work significantly influenced South Africa's cultural landscape. She noted that his life demonstrated the power of music to unite people and preserve the country's heritage.