In 2025, South African entertainment icon Kelly Khumalo marks a milestone that not only celebrates her vibrant career but also highlights an inspiring personal evolution. Kelly Khumalo is celebrating 20 years in the entertainment industry, a journey marked by extraordinary talent, resilience, and continual growth.
Kelly Khumalo Career Timeline
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2003: Discovered at a Gospel Star Search while performing a gospel song.
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2005: Released debut studio album T.K.O, earning two nominations at the 2006 South African Music Awards (SAMA) for Song of the Year and Best Afro Pop Album. Named Best Newcomer in Afro Pop music circuit.
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2006: Released second album Itshitshi on September 27.
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2012: Released The Past, The Present, The Future on November 5; the album won her Best Female Artist of the Year at the 19th SAMA awards in 2013.
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2014: Released the single “Asine,” nominated for Song of the Year at Metro FM Awards (2015). Album Back to My Roots nominated for Best African Pop Album and Best African Adult Album at SAMA XXXI in 2015.
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2016: Released seventh studio album My Truth on October 28, which won Best Female Album at the 2017 Metro FM Awards.
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2018: Released eighth album Unleashed on November 5, with singles “Jehovah” and “Dance Comigo.”
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2020: Released ninth album The Voice of Africa on October 9; the single “Empini” received gold certification and the album received nominations at the All Africa Music Awards and the 27th SAMA.
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2021: Released The Voice of Africa live version; began hosting the Gospel Explosion Concert series.
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2022: Announced From a God to a King tour and released lead single “Bazokhuluma.”
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2023: Released tenth album From a God to a King on February 14.
Notable Scandals
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Publicly spoke about being in an abusive relationship and became an advocate against domestic violence.
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Confessed to a period of drug addiction during her relationship with singer Molemo Maarohanye; attended Narcotics Anonymous.
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Partner Senzo Meyiwa’s tragic death in 2014, which brought intense media scrutiny and public attention.
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Various public disputes and controversies surrounding her personal life and relationships, often covered extensively in South African media.
A Star is Born and Grows
Over the past two decades, Kelly Khumalo has grown into one of South Africa’s most beloved singers and performers. Her journey began with raw passion and undeniable talent, which she has honed into a legacy of powerful music and memorable performances. Her soulful voice and emotive storytelling have won the hearts of fans across the nation and beyond.
More Than a Milestone
2025 is not just a celebration of Kelly’s career longevity. This year also marks her 40th birthday and her graduation as a certified traditional healer (inyanga). This blend of artistic accomplishment and cultural wisdom adds a remarkable depth to Kelly’s profile, showing her commitment to personal and spiritual growth alongside her professional achievements.
The 20-Year Celebration Event
Fans and supporters can look forward to a spectacular event to commemorate these milestones. The “20 Year Celebration of Kelly Khumalo” is slated for November 15, 2025, at the Meropa Outdoor Arena in Polokwane. This event promises to be a grand showcase of Kelly’s journey, featuring performances, stories, and special moments that reflect her two decades of contribution to South African music and culture.
