Tributes are pouring following the passing of well-known KwaZulu Natal Poet Mxolisi Mtshali (36) who is from Nongoma in Zululand. He is known for the popular romantic poem Zulu Love Letter which he penned in 2010. He is the founder of an annual poetry event in Durban called Poet in Suit.

ZULU LOVE POEMS

Mtshali wrote his poems in original isiZulu. He was described as an all-rounder and a celebrated poet for over a decade. He shared stages with well-known artists like Sello Maake ka Ncube. His close friends told ZiMoja that he passed away after a short illness yesterday at a hospital in Durban. One of his most popular and loved poems after Zulu Love Letter is I Love Letter Engabhori He was also featured in a few songs where he recited his poems.

TRIBUTES POURING IN

Musician Latoya Delazy wrote that she and Mtshali worked on a song titled Uyena Ke Lona which never saw the light. "We made this in 2010. We never released it as I got signed the next year, but everyone knows I was a pianist first and a singer before the rave. I was so happy when he liked the keys I was playing for him and we were talking about releasing this in 2020, but now you are gone bhuti. Listening to his lyrics again I'm just blown away at the massive talent. Honoured to have made this with you and want to make a way for all the proceeds of this unreleased gem to go to your family (if anyone can assist). Lala ngokuthula Matshinga! (loosely translated, farewell Mantshinga (clan name)," she wrote on her Facebook page.

Durban-based Influencer Nomalizwi Mhlongo wrote, "It's with great sadness to read about the passing of Mxolisi Mtshali, who is the founder of Poets in the Suit he launched many successful Durban poets. He's well known for his poem "I Love Letter Engabhori" which we have witnessed on our stage!

Details about his funeral and memorial service have not been released.