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Gqom hit band Big Nuz member Mandla ‘Mampintsha’ Maphumulo has passed away.
Maphumulo passed away in hospital on Saturday morning.
News of his passing was confirmed by a close family friend and record label mate who asked not to be named, as the family was preparing a statement.
"It is true. Unfortunately. I can’t talk at the moment. Our record label will release a statement," the colleague said.
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In a statement released by Maphumulo’s record label Afrotainment this week, it was revealed that Maphumulo was admitted to hospital after suffering a stroke over the weekend.
Afrotainment said the star suffered a stroke a week ago after a performance with his band, Big Nuz.
"He is currently in hospital receiving medical attention and is under doctor's observation," the label said in the statement.
"We ask that you keep him in your prayers. Afrotainment wishes him a speedy recovery, and we cannot wait for him to rock our stages again."
Maphumulo, who was affectionately known as Shimora to his followers, was married to fellow gqom musician Bongekile Simelane, popularly known as Babes Wodumo, and they have one child who was born in July 2021.
He was also a feature on their hit reality show, Uthando Lodumo, which is currently in its second season and is broadcast on Showmax.
READ: He is a fine man who is loving, says Babes about Mampintsha
News of Maphumulo’s passing saw messages of condolences flood social media on Saturday morning with fans expressing shock under the #RIPShimora.
Godide Media Studio said: "Thank you, Mampintsha, for blessing us with your last hit, phumula manke sosha. Let us do justice and vote it as a song of the year in honour of Mampintsha."
One social media user Ayanda Ntuli said: "You gave us good music. May your soul rest in peace, Mampintsha."
Maphumlo broke into the limelight with his band, Big Nuz in 2002, which was made up of him, R Mashesha and Danger, and was signed under Gallo Records.
