Mongezi Thomas Stuurman[3] (22 September 1995 – 9 August 2021),[2][4] known professionally as Mpura, was a South African rapper, fashion designer and record producer best known for his hit song "Umsebenzi Wethu", sang in Zulu language. He was also known for his most popular songs "Impilo Yase Sandton"
Mpura | |
---|---|
Birth name | Mongezi Thomas Stuurman |
Also known as |
|
Born | Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa | 22 September 1995
Died | 9 August 2021 near Rustenburg, North West, South Africa[2] | (aged 25)
Genres | Amapiano |
Occupations |
|
Instrument | Vocals |
Years active | 2018–2021 |
Early life and education
editMpura was born and raised in Soweto, Gauteng . He attended Highlands North Boys’ High School.[5]
Career
editBefore he rose to fame in the music industry, he was involved in fashion and founded Mpura Designs, a unisex street style brand. In 2018, he made his South African Fashion Week debut, showcasing his Autumn/Winter 2019 collection.[6]
On 11 December 2020, he and Busta 929 featuring Lady Du, Reece Madlisa, Mr JazziQ and Zuma single Umsebenzi Wethu was released.[7] The song reached number one local iTunes charts and was certified platinum.[8]
Awards and nominations
editYear | Award ceremony | Prize | Result |
---|---|---|---|
2021 | SA Amapiano Music Awards | Best Amapiano Lyricist/Rapper | Won[9] |
Death
editOn 9 August 2021, Mpura died in a car accident on his way to perform at an event in the North West, alongside Killer Kau.[10]
References
edit- ^ "Mpura wadi bedtime story laid to rest". sowetourban.co.za.
- ^ a b "WATCH: Riky Rick and Mpura's brothers emotional speeches at late star's funeral". iol.co.za.
- ^ Notho, Snazo (17 August 2021). "Mpura remembered as a supportive, God-fearing dreamer who always prayed for his friends | Drum". Drum. South Africa.
- ^ "SA celebrities pay tribute to Mpura on 26th birthday". Fakaza. 22 September 2021. Retrieved 11 January 2022.
- ^ "6 Things You Should Know About Mpura". theyanos.co.za. Retrieved 21 August 2021.
- ^ "Get to know the fashion side of Mongezi 'Mpura' Stuurman". iol.co.za. Retrieved 21 August 2021.
- ^ Masia, Gloria (11 June 2021). "Mpura Calls On 'Umsebenzi Wethu' Features To Drop The Track's Music Video - The Yanos Magazine". The Yanos Magazine.
- ^ Israel A, John (22 February 2021). "Busta 929 & Mpura's "Umsebenzi Wethu" Goes Platinum With Over 6 Million Streams". Ubetoo.
- ^ "Stars recognised at the first SA Amapiano Awards". news24.com. Retrieved 27 October 2021.
- ^ "WATCH: Family & friends bid farewell to Mpura at intimate funeral service". iol.co.za. Retrieved 21 August 2021.