SA songstress grandma 'Gee Six Five' dies from Covid-19

A South African retired teacher who rose to fame this year after releasing her first song has died from Covid-19.

Olpha Selepe, 65, popularly known as Gee Six Five, was isolating at home after testing positive on Monday, according to a family statement.

She derived her stage name from her age and Gee stands for Gogo, which means grandmother. 

Her song, Obani Lababantu - meaning who are these people, was widely shared on social media platforms as fans marvelled at her ability despite her age.

The song topped streaming and download charts in early November, South Africa's News24 reports.

Her niece Sbu Mpungose eulogised her as fearless and that her music had inspired many:

“My beloved aunt, MumNcane who many of you know as #GeeSixFive is no more. She displayed leadership throughout her life, was the epitome of fearlessness & inspired many with her single #ObaniLababantu. Mthiya, Shandu kaNdaba, Sontshikazi. #RIPGeeSixFive”

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: Twitter