Happy birthday Brenda Fassie! Eight iconic photos from the archives

Staff reporter

Brenda Fassie. Photo: Leon Morris/Redferns

Often referred to as the Madonna of the townships or Queen of African pop, controversial singer Brenda Fassie left a lasting impression on the South African music culture.

City Press takes a stroll down memory lane to remember the music icon who would have turned 58 on Thursday.

MaBrrr, as she was affectionately called, died in 2004 after suffering a severe asthma attack that triggered a fatal cardiac arrest.

READ: Chicco Twala reflects on Brenda Fassie’s legacy, her upcoming Netflix film and future plans

Fassie was born in the Langa township in Cape Town and was the youngest of nine children. She gained her love for music from her mother, who was a pianist, and would reportedly sing to tourists from a young age.

She made her big debut on the musical scene with the hit Weekend Special along with her band, The Big Dudes, in 1983.

This was followed by songs many still enjoy today, such as Zola Budd, Amagents, Vulindlela, Too late for Mama and Black President – which was written about the late Nelson Mandela and released in 1990.

Brenda Fassie photographed for an interview by Charl Blignaut for the December 1992/January 1993 issue of Vrye Weekblad In Bed with Brenda. Photo: Sally Shorkend

Brenda Fassie left some audiences thrilled during her electrifying performance at Morula Sun on New Year's Day in 2004. Photo: P Eland

Brenda Fassie spends time in her Langa, Cape Town, home with ANC stalwart and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela in August 1993. Photo: Gallo Images/Oryx Media Archive