Kelly Khumalo is a South African singer, songwriter, and actress. She was born on November 11, 1984, in Spruitview, East of Johannesburg, South Africa. She is famously known for her powerful vocals and distinct style of music that blends traditional African rhythms with modern pop beats. Kelly has made a name for herself in the South African music industry, earning numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the industry.
Early life and breakthrough:
Kelly Khumalo was born into a musical family. Her mother, Ntombi Khumalo, was a renowned singer, while her father was a truck driver. She grew up in Spruitview, East of Johannesburg, and started singing at a young age. In 2003, she rose to fame with her debut album “TKO”, which featured hits such as “Qinisela” and “Sobabili”. The album was a commercial success and earned Kelly her first nomination for Best Newcomer at the South African Music Awards.
Family, siblings, parents, children:
Kelly Khumalo is the firstborn of her parents’ three children. She has two younger siblings, a brother named Zandile Khumalo and a sister named Zanele Khumalo. Kelly has two children, a son named Christian and a daughter named Thingo. Her son Christian is from a previous relationship with Prosper Mkwaiwa, a businessman who passed away in 2015. Her daughter Thingo is from her relationship with rapper Jub Jub.
Education since childhood:
Kelly Khumalo attended high school at Aurora Girls High School in Johannesburg. She later went on to pursue a degree in Drama and Performing Arts at the Oakfields College in Johannesburg.
Career, music, awards:
Kelly Khumalo’s music career took off with her debut album “TKO” in 2003. She has since released several albums, including “Itshitshi” (2006), “Siyajabula” (2008), “The Past, The Present, The Future” (2012), and “Unleashed” (2018). Kelly has won several awards for her music, including Best Female Artist at the South African Music Awards in 2005, 2014, and 2019. She has also won awards for Best Collaboration, Best Music Video, and Song of the Year.
Scandals:
Kelly Khumalo has had her fair share of controversies and scandals throughout her career. In 2014, her boyfriend, Senzo Meyiwa, a South African soccer player, was shot and killed in her presence. The incident sparked public outrage and scrutiny into her personal life. Kelly was also implicated in a drug scandal in 2018, which she vehemently denied. She has been the subject of tabloid gossip and rumors surrounding her relationships and personal life.
Houses and cars and other big assets:
Kelly Khumalo is known for her lavish lifestyle, which includes owning multiple properties and luxury cars. She reportedly owns a mansion in Johannesburg, valued at over R3 million, as well as a holiday home in KwaZulu-Natal. Kelly also owns several luxury cars, including a Range Rover, a Mercedes-Benz, and a BMW.
Relationships, Baby Daddy, Boyfriend:
Khumalo’s personal life has been the subject of much scrutiny over the years, particularly her relationships with several high-profile men. She has been in relationships with former South African footballer, Senzo Meyiwa, and rapper, Jub Jub, with whom she has a child. Meyiwa tragically passed away in 2014 after being shot in a robbery gone wrong, leaving Khumalo devastated. The identity of her daughter’s father, who was born in 2010, has never been revealed.
Khumalo has also been in a relationship with Chad da Don, a rapper, but their relationship was short-lived. They got engaged in 2018 but broke up a few months later. In 2021, Khumalo revealed that she was in a new relationship with a man named Mhlo Gumede.
Other Businesses and Net Worth:
Khumalo has also ventured into other business ventures outside of music. She has her own range of fragrances called “Kelly Khumalo” and has been a brand ambassador for several companies, including the cosmetics brand, Vaseline.
According to reports, Khumalo’s net worth is estimated to be around 5 million South African Rand (approximately $340,000 USD). Her income is mainly derived from her music career, appearances on reality television shows, brand endorsements, and other business ventures.
Khumalo has also been involved in philanthropic work and has established the Senzo Meyiwa Foundation in memory of her late partner. The foundation aims to support and uplift underprivileged communities in South Africa.
In conclusion, Kelly Khumalo has had a successful career in the entertainment industry, and while her personal life has been marked by tragedy and controversy, she has continued to thrive in her professional endeavors. Her net worth reflects her success and entrepreneurial spirit, and she continues to be a prominent figure in South African popular culture.
