She sang with Miriam Makeba. She entertained Mandela. Now, at 83, Abigail Kubeka takes center stage once more—not to perform, but to be celebrated. On July 5, 2025, a sense of appreciation filled Pretoria’s historic State Theatre, where South Africa celebrated one of its most cherished musical gems during an extraordinary tribute concert.
Abigail Kubeka’s influence on South African culture extends over six decades, intricately interwoven with the golden age of jazz, the vibrant township rhythms of mbaqanga, and the soulful sounds of marabi. Her career began in 1957 with Makeba’s Skylarks and has since charted the evolution of South African sound and spirit. Her voice, deep and powerful, expresses the happiness, sorrows, and strength of a community that has historically used music to both criticize and celebrate.
On July 5, Abigail Kubeka was honored with a prestigious accolade as part of the Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series, an initiative led by the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture that seeks to acknowledge significant contributions in the realms of sport, arts, and culture. More than 25 legendary artists, including Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Sipho Mabuse, Faith Kekana, and Zenzi Makeba Lee will grace the stage in tribute. Their performances will not only celebrate Kubeka but affirm her living impact across generations of South African artists.
Beyond her achievements as a singer and composer, Kubeka’s film and television career has earned her acclaim, versatility, and admiration. From entertaining global figures like Queen Elizabeth II to portraying matriarchal figures on South African screens, she has embodied the enduring grace of a cultural ambassador. Her artistry stands as a bridge between eras, reminding us that cultural excellence is both inherited and cultivated.
Mama Abigail Kubeka represents national pride and embodies South Africa’s spirit and vitality through mbaqanga’s vibrant rhythms. Her musical path started in 1957 when she joined Miriam Makeba’s Skylarks, and she has been instrumental in the development of South African music and culture. Her deep, resonant voice conveys the joys and struggles of a community that has long used music as a tool for both critique and celebration.
The tribute featured over 25 legendary artists, including Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Sipho Mabuse, Faith Kekana, and Zenzi Makeba Lee, all of whom shared the stage in honor of Kubeka, celebrating her lasting influence on generations of South African artists.
In addition to her prowess as a singer and composer, Kubeka has also received acclaim for her work in film and television, showcasing her versatility. From entertaining dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II to portraying strong matriarchal roles on South African television, she has represented the grace of a cultural ambassador. Her artistic journey serves as a connection between different eras, illustrating that cultural excellence is both a heritage and a craft.
Mama Abigail Kubeka is not just a national treasure; she is also a living testament to the resilience, rhythm, and brilliance of South Africa.
