An outpouring of tributes in honour of jazz veteran Thandi Klaasen continue to flood social media networks.
News of Klaasen's death at the age of 86 was confirmed on Sunday morning by her family through a media statement.Klaasen's daughter Lorraine confirmed last week that the jazz legend had been battling with pancreatic cancer.
President Jacob Zuma and numerous high-profile celebrities have paid tribute to the fallen musician, who touched the lives of thousands of people through her music.
"Ms Klaasen contributed to the country not only as a musician but also a social and political activist who was always outspoken about social-economic issues in the country. We have lost one of the leading pioneers of South African jazz music and promoters of the country's cosmopolitan culture. She was a role model to many of our young and upcoming musicians and her legacy will live on for generations to come," said President Zuma through a media statement.
Celebrities including Felicia Mabuza Suttle, Euphonik, and Generations actress Nambitha Mpumlwana joined hundreds of fans in paying tribute to the star.
I met #ThandiKlaasen in a Montreal winter. She told me that, if I can walk on the ice, I can make it in the entertainment industry!— NAMBITHA (@NAMBITHA) January 15, 2017
Rest In Peace #ThandiKlaasen— Euphonik™♛ (@euphonik) January 15, 2017
Sad to hear about passing of #jazzshero #ThandiKlaasen. We enjoyed he many appearances on the #FeliciaShow. You demonstrated true courage. pic.twitter.com/4XPRs6oK9p— Felicia MabuzaSuttle (@Feliciamabuza) January 15, 2017
Rest in peace Mama. Your resilience, your music, your power will forever be remembered. #ThandiKlaasen pic.twitter.com/UDEeZeeAOn— Masechaba Ndlovu (@MasechabaNdlovu) January 15, 2017
Sad news .Rest in peace #ThandiKlaasen always humble and so gracious .we have lost a giant of South African music— Hotstix (@siphohotstix) January 15, 2017
Memorial and funeral details are expected to be announced early this week.
