Yolanda ‘Yallunder’ Nyembezi Dies at 30: South African singer-songwriter Yolanda Yallunder Nyembezi has passed away. Her manager, Lerato Sejeng, confirmed her death to TshisaLIVE on Thursday. Yallunder had been battling health challenges throughout 2024, frequently being admitted to the hospital due to iron deficiency and anemia. Her passing has left fans and fellow artists devastated, with tributes pouring in across social media.
Born and raised in Bizana, Eastern Cape, Yallunder was a classically trained vocalist who graduated cum laude in vocal pedagogy. She gained widespread attention in 2018 by creating captivating song covers that caught the eyes of industry heavyweights like Black Coffee and Sjava. Sjava took her under his wing and signed her to his record label, 1020 Cartel, in 2020. This marked the beginning of her recording career, with her soulful track Ndinovalo and collaborations like Inhliziyo and Abanjani featured on the label’s debut album iSambulo.
Yallunder’s distinctive voice and unique style earned her collaborations with some of the most prominent names in South African music, including Kabza De Small, Heavy K, Oskido, Morda, and the production duo Lemon & Herb. Her ability to blend soulful melodies with thought-provoking lyrics made her a beloved figure in the Maskandi and Afro-soul genres. She left a lasting impact through her powerful storytelling and emotive performances.
After parting ways with 1020 Cartel, Yallunder established herself as an independent artist by founding her own label, Masani Music. Through this venture, she continued to explore her musical identity and maintain creative control over her craft. Yallunder’s legacy lives on in her music, as she leaves behind a profound influence on the South African music scene and countless fans who admired her passion and authenticity.
