One of the wives of Dr Thomas Chauke, a veteran Xitsonga singer, has passed away. Ethel Chauke (58), was part of Xitsonga singer's backing vocalist, The Shinyori Sisters.

REST IN PEACE

The family announced her passing after a short illness saying she will be dearly missed. Ethel lived at their home in Salema in Giyani, Limpopo with the other wives, 20 children and 21 grandchildren.

UNITY

Dr. Chauke (78) is known for his trademark sound of the electric guitar and his wives 'angelic voices and traditional dances in the background. He started out with 13 members in the group but through the years was left with only his wives. Dr Chauke has married for the fifth time but things didn't work out and his wife left. His wives consider him stern but caring. In 2016 he was presented with the Order of Ikhamanga by former president Jacob Zuma, for excelling in arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport. Ethel was part of the celebrations.