The South African music industry in once again grappling with the loss of another notable artist. This after multi-talented, award-winning jazz musician Gloria Bosman died. The renowned singer passed away at the age of 50. Bosman’s family said she passed away surrounded by her family after a ‘short illness’.
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Fellow artists, fans and close friends took to social media to pay tribute to the jazz singer:
This will be beautiful. I once had a show with younger SA artists who admire #MiriamMakeba sing her songs for her. Remember having #JudithSephuma, @GloriaBosman and #Queen were on that show. Miriam was in awe. pic.twitter.com/b6jRBHKx82
— Felicia Mabuza-Suttle (@Feliciamabuza) February 6, 2023
Gloria Bosman was one of my favourite artist 💔💔💔#GloriaBosman #RIPGloriaBosman pic.twitter.com/nh5pVM3Dhx
— Jones Mzizi (@jonesmzizi) March 14, 2023
So Sad , gutted , Rest In Peace my dear friend #gloriabosman , thank you for sharing the stage and sharing your gift with us all , am shattered – Love and respect Sipho and the hotband @SIPHIWEGKUBHEKA @thamiMgcina @Tabiasongbird #RIP Gloria Bosman 💔💔 pic.twitter.com/BMRGrqOVFW
— Hotstix (@siphohotstix) March 14, 2023
The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) remembered the late music veteran for her steadfast ambition to preserve the country’s jazz history. Bosman was appointed, just last month, to the board of directors at Samro.
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The organisation’s chair, Nicholas Maweni regards Bosman’s contributions to the music industry and the moves she made since her appointment to the board:
In the short period that she was on the board, she added a perspective that comprised a rich blend of insights on member aspirations and the direction that our organisation should continue to march towards
The board is heartbroken at Gloria Bosman’s death, added Maweni. He says it will take some time to come to terms with her untimely passing:
The wisdom, insights and knowledge she gained throughout her very long and illustrious career is what got her to be appointed to the Board of SAMRO. We will dearly miss her presence of mind in our engagements, her humanity, compassion and empathy for her fellow composers
Gloria Bosman was one of South Africa’s jazz legends and most celebrated singers. She received over 11 South African Music Award nominations throughout her career, winning two. She also received two Kora All Africa Music Award nominations.
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Bosman’s debut album, Tranquility, came out in the 90s – earning her the Best Newcomer Award at the 2001 SAMAs. She also received nominations for Best Contemporary Jazz Album and Best Female Artist.
Bosman would then go on to record five other albums. She toured the world and even shared performances with the likes of Hugh Masekela, Moses Molelekwa and Sipho Gumede.
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