SA mourns pop singer Ali Katt

Family spokesperson Jacky Mathala told the Daily Sun that the singer's heath had deteriorated since he suffered a stroke about four years ago.

“He was an active person until he was hit by the stroke. That was when he started slowing down,” Mathala said.

Condolences have been pouring in on social media since last night.  

“A towering giant of the South African music industry famously known for hits like ‘Let the Good Times Roll’ has fallen with the passing of legendary musician ntate Ali Katt. We send our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and fans,” the Department of Arts and Culture wrote on Twitter.

“Rest In Peace to the legend Ali Katt also known as Ali Moroatshehla. Your music will keep the good times rolling for generations to come as your spirit lives on,” the South African Music Awards said.

His friend and colleague, William Mthethwa, reflected on the musician's work ethic and professionalism. “He was clean, always smiled and never complained. When rehearsals started at 10, he would arrive two hours early,” he said.

Ali Katt (real name Albert Moroasehla) was born in the Johannesburg township of Alexandra. He started preforming in the 1970s and in 1979 began singing for The Minerals. He later met singer Godfrey Nzuza who helped him launch his solo career.

Ali Katt made a name for himself with ‘Let the Good Times Roll’ which featured on his 1987 debut album Have Mercy. In 1988 he released Killer, a tribute to the conjoined Mathibela twins. The album featured the hit ‘Liar’. After taking a long break from making music, he made a comeback with Ali Katt and Biggs duet and the album Township Boy.

The singer's memorial service will be held in Tembisa, Johannesburg, on Thursday while his funeral is planned for Saturday. The musician is survived by his sister and two children.