Kelly Khumalo Biography
Kelly Khumalo, born Kelly Nonhlanhla Khumalo, is a versatile South African artist known for her talents in singing, songwriting, acting, and dancing.
She originally hails from Vosloorus but later moved to Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal, where she spent her formative years.
Her journey into the spotlight began when she was discovered during a gospel talent search. This led to her signing a record deal with Bonsai Entertainment and subsequently launching her inaugural studio album, “T.K.O,” in 2005. The release of this album propelled her into stardom, and she was recognized as the Best Newcomer of 2005 in the Afro Pop music scene.
In 2012, Khumalo unveiled “The Past, The Present, The Future,” her album released on 5 November. Her musical prowess was further acknowledged in May 2013 when she secured an award at the 19th South African Music Awards.
Khumalo’s musical evolution continued with her ninth album, titled “The Voice of Africa,” which was unveiled in 2020. This album masterfully blended elements of R&B, gospel, and Afro pop, captivating audiences with its rich diversity. Notably, “The Voice of Africa” achieved gold certification within South Africa, a testament to its widespread popularity and impact.
Kelly Khumalo Age
Khumalo entered the world on November 1st, 1984 in Spruitview, Katlehong. This makes the star artiste’s current age 38 years.
Kelly Khumalo Height
Khumalo’s stature measures 1.65 meters, equivalent to 5 feet and 5 inches.
Kelly Khumalo Family
During her formative years, Khumalo faced a challenging upbringing. Her parents parted ways while she was still young, leading to her upbringing by her grandmother. Khumalo’s grandmother emerged as her primary pillar of support, motivating her to chase after her aspirations.
Kelly Khumalo Husband / Boyfriend
The acclaimed artist Khumalo was romantically linked with Senzo Meyiwa, a goalkeeper for Orlando Pirates. Tragically, Senzo was fatally shot in what appeared to be an armed robbery at Khumalo’s mother’s residence in Vosloorus. Khumalo also had a relationship with Molemo “Jub Jub” Maarohanye, a musician and former convict, which was marked by physical abuse rather than love.
Currently, the relationship between Khumalo and Chad da Don is progressing rapidly, with their love story becoming a reality. Despite facing challenges, they recently announced their engagement.
In 2012, she spoke out about her experience in an abusive relationship and became an advocate against domestic violence. She also revealed her struggle with drug addiction during her time with singer Molemo Maarohanye, and she attended Narcotics Anonymous meetings to overcome this issue.
Kelly Khumalo Career
Khumalo, born in Katlehong and later moving to KwaZulu-Natal before settling in Gauteng in 1997, has established herself as a prominent South African artist.
Her musical journey began with her debut solo album “T.K.O” in August 2005, earning her nominations for Song of the Year and Best Afro Pop Album at the 2006 South African Music Awards. She continued to release albums, including “Itshitshi” in September 2006 and “The Past, The Present, The Future” in November 2012, which won her the Best Female Artist of the Year award at the 19th SAMA Awards.
Her career continued to flourish with notable singles like “Asine,” nominated for Song of the Year at the Metro FM Awards in 2015. Khumalo’s album “Back to my Roots” received nominations as well.
Her seventh studio album, “My Truth,” released in October 2016, garnered recognition by winning Best Female Album at the 2017 Metro FM Awards. This was followed by her eighth studio album, “Unleashed,” in November 2018, which included the successful single “Empini.”
“The Voice of Africa,” her ninth studio album, was released on October 9, 2020, achieving gold certification and earning her a nomination for Best Female Artist at the All Africa Music Awards.
Khumalo’s musical prowess extended to the gospel charts with “Esiphambaweni,” a collaboration with Hlengiwe Mhlaba, reaching number one. The album “The Voice of Africa” was recognized at the 27th South African Music Awards as a contender for Best Afro-pop Album.
In recent years, she recorded a live version of “The Voice of Africa” and delivered a captivating performance at her Gospel Explosion Concert in April 2022.
Looking ahead, Khumalo’s 10th album “From A God To A King” is anticipated. The lead single “Bazokhuluma,” featuring Zakwe and Mthunzi, was released on November 4, 2022.
With her musical journey marked by a string of successful albums, impactful singles, and dynamic performances, Khumalo continues to make her mark in the South African music scene.
Television
In 2021, Life with Khumalo, her reality show, debuted on Showmax. Also in September 2021, she made an appearance on House of Zwide, a television soap that airs on etv.
During the same month, Khumalo was unveiled as a judge on Stand Up S.A.
As 2021 drew to a close, she took on the role of a guest judge on Season 17 of Idols South Africa.
In the early days of April 2022, her participation as a contestant in Season 10 of Tropika Island of Treasure was announced.
Controversies
On October 26, 2014, Senzo Meyiwa, the captain of the South Africa men’s national football team and the Orlando Pirates club, who shared a child with his girlfriend Khumalo, was fatally shot in her presence at her family’s residence in Vosloorus. The alleged perpetrator, known to Khumalo and those present during the shooting, remains undisclosed as she has chosen not to reveal their identity.
In October 2020, five individuals were charged with the murder of Meyiwa. The defendant refused any participation in the criminal act. Additionally, it was revealed that Kelly had been in communication with one of the suspects via cellphone both before and after the passing of Senzo Meyiwa.
Net Worth
According to our most recent research, Kelly Khumalo’s net worth is approximately $10 million.
Check out more of our celebrity news and biographys, Gigi Hadid Arrested, Jamie Foxx Hospitalization, Lizzo Sexual Harassment News and Sonia Mbele Affair with a married man.
