Mpura

Mpura
Birth nameMongezi Thomas Stuurman
Also known as
  • Mpura Mpura
  • Mpura wadi bed time story[1]
Born(1995-09-22)22 September 1995
Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa
Died9 August 2021(2021-08-09) (aged 25)
near Rustenburg, North West, South Africa[2]
GenresAmapiano
Occupations
  • Rapper
  • Fashion designer
  • Record producer
InstrumentVocals
Years active2018–2021

Mongezi Thomas Stuurman[3] (22 September 1995 – 9 August 2021),[2][4] known professionally as Mpura, was a South African rapper, fashion designer and record producer best known for his hit song "Umsebenzi Wethu", sang in Zulu language. He was also known for his most popular songs "Impilo Yase Sandton"

Early life and education

Mpura was born and raised in Soweto, Gauteng . He attended Highlands North Boys’ High School.[5]

Career

Before he rose to fame in the music industry, he was involved in fashion and founded Mpura Designs, a unisex street style brand. In 2018, he made his South African Fashion Week debut, showcasing his Autumn/Winter 2019 collection.[6]

On 11 December 2020, he and Busta 929 featuring Lady Du, Reece Madlisa, Mr JazziQ and Zuma single Umsebenzi Wethu was released.[7] The song reached number one local iTunes charts and was certified platinum.[8]

Awards and nominations

Year Award ceremony Prize Result
2021 SA Amapiano Music Awards Best Amapiano Lyricist/Rapper Won[9]

Death

On 9 August 2021, Mpura died in a car accident on his way to perform at an event in the North West, alongside Killer Kau.[10]

References

  1. ^ "Mpura wadi bedtime story laid to rest". sowetourban.co.za.
  2. ^ a b "WATCH: Riky Rick and Mpura's brothers emotional speeches at late star's funeral". iol.co.za.
  3. ^ Notho, Snazo (17 August 2021). "Mpura remembered as a supportive, God-fearing dreamer who always prayed for his friends | Drum". Drum. South Africa.
  4. ^ "SA celebrities pay tribute to Mpura on 26th birthday". Fakaza. 22 September 2021. Retrieved 11 January 2022.
  5. ^ "6 Things You Should Know About Mpura". theyanos.co.za. Retrieved 21 August 2021.
  6. ^ "Get to know the fashion side of Mongezi 'Mpura' Stuurman". iol.co.za. Retrieved 21 August 2021.
  7. ^ Masia, Gloria (11 June 2021). "Mpura Calls On 'Umsebenzi Wethu' Features To Drop The Track's Music Video - The Yanos Magazine". The Yanos Magazine.
  8. ^ Israel A, John (22 February 2021). "Busta 929 & Mpura's "Umsebenzi Wethu" Goes Platinum With Over 6 Million Streams". Ubetoo.
  9. ^ "Stars recognised at the first SA Amapiano Awards". news24.com. Retrieved 27 October 2021.
  10. ^ "WATCH: Family & friends bid farewell to Mpura at intimate funeral service". iol.co.za. Retrieved 21 August 2021.