The South African music industry is reeling from the untimely passing of beloved singer Yallunder, real name Yolanda Nyembezi, whose soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics touched countless lives.
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A tragic farewell
Yallunder passed away on 13 March 2025 at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital following a prolonged illness. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement released on 14 March through her official Instagram account.
“Her journey was one of unwavering strength, and even in her most vulnerable moments, she remained a beacon of love, kindness, and artistry. Losing her has left an unimaginable void in our hearts, but we take comfort in knowing that her music, her legacy, and the love she poured into the world will live on forever,” the statement read.
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A rising star from the Eastern Cape
Born in Bizana, Eastern Cape, on 23 August 1994, Yallunder was more than just a singer. She was a classically trained vocalist and a cum laude graduate in vocal pedagogy. Her passion for music was undeniable, and her talent set her apart from the very beginning.
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The journey to stardom
Yallunder first gained attention by sharing covers of popular songs, drawing in fans with her powerful voice. In 2018, her raw talent caught the attention of award-winning artist Sjava, who signed her to his record label, 1020 Cartel.
This moment proved life-changing as she became part of the iSambulo album, with her track Ndinovalo amassing over 1.2 million views on YouTube. Her success continued to soar, with her debut album, Uthando Lwam (2021), making waves in the Afro-soul and house music genres. The album peaked at number eight on the iTunes chart and number 39 on Apple Music, solidifying her place in the industry.
Over the years, Yallunder collaborated with some of South Africa’s biggest names, including Kabza De Small, Oskido, Morda, Kelvin Momo, Heavy K, and Lemon & Herb.
While Yallunder’s physical presence may be gone, her music and spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Her voice, filled with emotion and truth, will forever echo through her songs, ensuring that her legacy remains immortal.
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Featured Image: Instagram | @yallunder_
