Quick Facts about Kelly Khumalo
| Full Name | Kelly Nonhlanhla Khumalo |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 11, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Spruitview, Katlehong, Gauteng |
| Age | 39 years |
| Nationality | South African |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Dancer |
| Genres | Afro Pop, Gospel |
| Mother | Ntombi Khumalo |
| Sister | Zandie Khumalo-Gumede |
| Children | Two |
| Famous Songs | “Empini,” “Esphambanweni,” “Asine” |
| Albums | T.K.O., My Truth, Unleashed |
| Notable Awards | Best Female Artist, Best Female Album |
| Ex-boyfriends | Jub Jub, Prosper Mkwaiwa, Chad Don, Senzo Meyiwa |
| Reality Show | Life with Kelly Khumalo |
Biography of Kelly Khumalo
Kelly Nonhlanhla Khumalo (born November 11, 1984) is a renowned South African Afro Pop and gospel singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer. Raised in Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal, Kelly was born in Spruitview, Katlehong, Gauteng, to Ntombi Khumalo, with whom she shares a close bond. She also has a sister, Zandie Khumalo-Gumede, who is an accomplished singer and songwriter.
Kelly’s rise to stardom began after being discovered at a gospel talent search, which led to her signing a record deal with Bomsai Entertainment. In 2005, she released her debut studio album T.K.O., which introduced her powerful vocals to the South African music scene. She has since become known for hit singles such as “Empini,” “Esphambanweni,” and “Ngathwala Ngaye.”
Early Life
Born in Gauteng, but raised in Nquthu, Kelly’s early life was marked by a strong connection to her family, particularly her mother and sister. Her musical journey began at a young age, and by the time she participated in a gospel talent search, her talent was undeniable. This event would lead to her signing with Bomsai Entertainment and the release of her debut album.
Musical Career
Kelly’s debut album T.K.O. was released in 2005 and garnered critical acclaim, earning her nominations for Song of the Year and Best Afro Pop Album at the 2006 South African Music Awards. She followed up with her second album Itshitshi in 2006 and continued to release a string of successful albums.
Her 2012 album, The Past, The Present, The Future, earned her the Best Female Artist of the Year award at the 2013 SAMAs. In 2014, she released the single “Asine,” which became a national hit and received a Metro FM Awards nomination. Her subsequent albums, including My Truth (2016) and Unleashed (2018), cemented her reputation as a top-tier artist in the South African music industry.
Kelly’s most recent album, The Voice of Africa (2020), features the chart-topping hits “Empini” and “Esphambanweni,” further establishing her as one of the country’s leading Afro Pop and gospel singers.
Television Career
In addition to her music, Kelly has enjoyed a successful television career. Her reality show, Life with Kelly Khumalo, debuted on Showmax in 2021, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into her life as a mother, artist, and businesswoman. She has also appeared as a guest judge on Idols South Africa and was a competitor on Tropika Island of Treasure.
Personal Life and Controversies
Kelly’s personal life has often been in the public eye. She was in a relationship with late South African soccer star Senzo Meyiwa, who was tragically shot in 2014. Kelly has two children, one of whom she had with Meyiwa. In addition to Meyiwa, Kelly has been linked to other high-profile figures, including musicians Jub Jub, Prosper Mkwaiwa, and Chad Don.
Despite the challenges, Kelly Khumalo remains one of South Africa’s most enduring and successful artists, known for her resilience, talent, and versatility.
