Solly Moholo, whose real name was Solomon Molokoane, was a well-known South African gospel artist known for blending traditional gospel sounds with township rhythms, giving his music a unique flavor that resonated deeply with many listeners.
He was a vocal critic of piracy and xenophobia and a passionate supporter of the ANC and community-focused initiatives. Sadly, he died on October 2, 2024.
This article focuses on the biography of Solly Moholo, exploring his early years, place of birth, age, net worth, career, personal life, death, and the legacy he left behind.
Solly Moholo Biography Summary
- Full Name: Solomon Molokoane
- Stage Name: Solly Moholo
- Date of Birth: Not Provided
- Place of Birth: Soshanguve, Pretoria, South Africa
- Primary Genre: Traditional Gospel
- Known For: Trademark ZCC uniform,’mokhukhu jive
- Affiliations: Zion Christian Church (ZCC)
- Notable Albums: Tsoha Jonase Nice Time Ya Bolaya (2003), Mandela O Llela Bana (2006), Ba Mmitsa Tsotsi (2006), Oa Ntaela Moya (2008), Tshwara Mo Oratang Mfundisi (2009), Difofu Dikgopela Merapelo (2010), Ba Mo Kobile Kerekeng (2013)
- Impact: Talent scout and producer for artists like Winnie Mashaba and Johannes Mamabolo
- Vocal Critic: Piracy and Xenophobia
- Supporter: ANC and community-focused initiatives
- Personal Life: Resided in Soshanguve, Pretoria; had a home studio
- Notable Incident: Survived a hostage drama in late 2009
- Date of Death: October 2, 2024
- Cause of Death: illness following a stroke and multiple organ failure
- Last album: Wubani o zo Pepeza
- Legacy: Deeply influenced traditional gospel music
- Family: Requested privacy during mourning
- Memorial: Details to be shared on official social media accounts
- Community Engagement: Active presence in his community
- Early Life: Deeply involved with ZCC
- Career Start: Early 2000s
Who Was Solly Moholo?
Solomon Molokoane, better known by his stage name Solly Moholo, was born in Soshanguve, a township located in Pretoria, South Africa.
He grew up deeply rooted in the teachings and traditions of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), a religious institution that greatly influenced his music style.
From a young age, his connection to the church community shaped both his life and music, making him a significant figure in South Africa’s gospel scene.
Career Highlights
Solly Moholo’s music career kicked off in the early 2000s, and he quickly became a household name.
His energetic performances, often accompanied by his signature ZCC uniform and the famous’mokhukhu jive’ dance, made him stand out.
Some of his popular albums include:
- Tsoha Jonase Nice Time Ya Bolaya (2003)
- Mandela O. Llela Bana (2006)
- Ba Mmitsa Tsotsi (2006)
- Oa Ntaela Moya (2008)
- Tshwara Mo Oratang Mfundisi (2009)
- Difofu Dikgopela Merapelo (2010)
- Ba Mo Kobile Kerekeng (2013)
Beyond performing, Solly Moholo was also a talent scout and producer. He helped bring other talented musicians into the spotlight, including gospel artists like Winnie Mashaba and Johannes Mamabolo.
In addition to his music, he was a vocal critic of music piracy and xenophobia, using his platform to raise awareness about social issues. He also showed strong support for the ANC and various community initiatives.
Personal Life
Solly Moholo lived in his hometown of Soshanguve, Pretoria. Despite his fame, he stayed grounded and actively engaged with his local community. He even set up a home studio where he worked on his music projects.
A notable event in his life occurred in 2009, when he survived a hostage situation. His captors admired his work so much that they spared his life, showing the wide-reaching impact his music had on people.
Solly Moholo Death: Cause of Death Revealed!
Solly Moholo died on October 2, 2024, after battling an illness. His health had deteriorated following a stroke, which eventually led to multiple organ failure.
His death was a significant loss to the South African music community, particularly within the gospel genre.
Solly Moholo Age & Date of Birth
Solly Moholo was born in Soshanguve, Pretoria, though his exact birthdate is not publicly known.
At the time of his death on October 2, 2024, he was 65 years old. His passing marked the end of a remarkable life and career that touched many lives.
Solly Moholo Net Worth
Although exact figures about Solly Moholo’s net worth are not available, it’s clear that his long and successful career contributed significantly to his financial standing.
With numerous albums, live performances, and production credits under his belt, his income was likely steady throughout his career.
His influence and popularity in the traditional gospel genre undoubtedly helped him build a solid financial foundation.
Solly Moholo Wife and Family
Solly Moholo was a private man when it came to his family life. Details about his wife and personal relationships were kept out of the public eye, a wish that his family continued to honor even after his passing.
Following his death, the Molokoane family requested privacy as they mourned.
FAQs
1. What was Solly Moholo’s real name?
Answer: Solly Moholo’s real name was Solomon Molokoane.
2. Where was Solly Moholo born?
Answer: He was born in Soshanguve, Pretoria, South Africa.
3. What type of music did Solly Moholo perform?
Answer: Solly Moholo was known for his traditional gospel music.
4. What was Solly Moholo’s signature style?
Answer: His signature style included wearing the ZCC uniform and performing the ‘mokhukhu jive’ dance.
5. How did Solly Moholo die?
Answer: Solly Moholo passed away from an illness that followed a stroke, leading to multiple organ failure.
6. What was Solly Moholo’s last album?
Answer: His last album was Wubani o zo Pepeza, with its single released just a few weeks before his passing.
Conclusion
Solly Moholo life and career left a lasting impression on South African gospel music. From his early days in Soshanguve to his rise as a major figure in traditional gospel, his dedication to his craft and community was evident.
His passing on October 2, 2024, at the age of 65, marked the end of an era, but his music and influence will continue to inspire future generations.