Renowned South African musician, Lucky Dube was killed by gunshot in front of his son and daughter in Johannesburg, South Africa. According to a police report, the award-winning reggae star was murdered on Thursday evening, October 18, when he was attacked by a group of carjackers. Lucky Dube is survived by his new wife Zanele and his 7 children Bongi, Nonkululeko, Thokozani, Laura, Siyanda, Philani and his brand new three-month old baby Melokuhle.
Dube became one of the best-selling artists in all of Africa during the 1980s and ’90s, and gained popularity in North America, the Caribbean and Europe.
His mother named him Lucky because he was born in poor health, but he survived. Although he began as an mbaqanga (traditional Zulu) music singer, Lucky Dube’s career boomed in 1987 when his third reggae album, Slave was released and let off massive hit singles: “Slave,” “I’ve Got You Babe,” and “Back to My Roots,” which led to a record breaking sold out performance in Johannesburg of over 50,000 people.
His 1989 album Prisoner sold over 100,000 copies worldwide. His platinum double live album Captured Live outsold any international music. Since then Lucky and his band, Slave, performed all over the world spreading a socially conscious message.
His most recent CD is Respect.
Should you wish to send a message of condolence to Lucky’s family, please email lucky@gallo.co.za or send a fax to 27 (0) 11 340 9471.
Author: World Music Central News Room
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