SA amapiano musician Gee Six Five has died

News about Selepe’s death was confirmed on social media by her niece Sbu Mpungose in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

“My beloved aunt, MumNcane who many of you know as Gee Six Five, is no more,” she wrote on Twitter. “She displayed leadership throughout her life, was the epitome of fearlessness and inspired many with her single ‘Obani Labantu’. RIP Gee Six Five.”

The ‘Obani Labantu’ hitmaker’s family also issued a statement confirming her passing. The former teacher had been self-isolating after testing positive for COVID-19 on Monday, according to the statement.

Condolences have been pouring on social media following the singer's death.

“We are saddened by the passing of Obani Labantu hitmaker Olpha Selepe, #geesixfive, who defied the odds and reminded us that music is ageless,” the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture wrote on Twitter. “Thank you for putting smiles on our faces and reminding us that we can still achieve what we put our minds to.”

Gee Six Five quickly became an internet sensation in October after her hit ‘Obani Labantu’ went viral on social media. It also reached the top of SA iTunes music charts.

“I have to apologise to my fans,” Selepe told local media in an interview last month. “But this is a once-off project. I have a reason for this. I’ve already done what I’ve dreamt of. Now I’m making room for others.”

Born in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, Selepe completed her Master’s degree at the age of 63 and was pursuing her PhD in Higher Education at the time of her passing. She is survived by three children and a number of grandchildren.