Rebecca Malope hurt by ‘funeral specialist’ label

Rebecca Malope’s emotional performance at Lundi Tyamara’s final send-off had the nation in tears, but not everyone was pleased to see her singing at the funeral service of yet another famous artist

Weeks earlier the gospel star was labelled a "funeral specialist performer" by a fellow musician.

Rebecca, who performed at Senzo Meyiwa and Sfiso Ncwane’s funerals, says the snide remark affected her badly.

She told Sowetan Live that her critic, who she refused to name, had accused her of seeing an opportunity to shine whenever someone famous dies.

The comment made her so sad, she questioned whether she should perform at Lundi’s funeral or not.

“My friend told me that the person had even suggested that I'm happy when someone dies, especially in the gospel industry. I was hurt and angry at the same time. I went to the funeral with a bleeding heart,” she told the publication.

But Rebecca decided she was not going to let the negativity get to her

She wanted to pay tribute to Lundi as the pair shared a history together.

Before making a name for himself in the music industry, Lundi sang backing vocals for Rebecca.

“I decided to perform because I realised that I had flown from Johannesburg to Cape Town to bid Lundi farewell. I was not there for the people of the industry who have issues. There was no way I was not going to perform for Lundi, he grew up under my wing.”