Lesotho-born jazz singer and songwriter Tsepo Tshola, long famous as “the Village Pope,” is dead. He died of Covid-19 complications in Lesotho. He was aged 68.
The family confirmed his death in a statement while also revealing the cause of death. The coronavirus has killed thousands around the world, including South Africa, where Tsepo Tshola was a permanent resident.
The Village’s Pope’s musical career spanned four decades. He had worked with some of the top figures in South Africa’s music universe, including the group Joyous Celebration, Family Tree boss Cassper Nyovest, and Rebecca Malope.
Although he failed to win the South Africa Music Awards (SAMA) throughout his career, he remained an influential figure in the country’s music scene until his death, which sent shock waves across the country.
Messages of condolences have been pouring in from around the world. The Government of South Africa had tweeted it condolences to the family of the deceased, whom it described as a legendary figure.
Joyous Celebration had tweeted a condolence message as well, calling a king and urging him to rest well.
By the way, Tsepo Tshola was called the Village Pope in reference to his soaraway album of the same title, released in 1994.
