Thandi Klaasen laid to rest
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has called on South Africans to not only honour artists after they have passed on.
Jazz legend Thandi Klaasen's funeral took place in Ekurhuleni this morning.
Klaasen lost her battle to pancreatic cancer earlier this month.
The arts fraternity, politicians and the Eden Park community have come out in their numbers to support Thandi Klaasen's friends and family.
Former president Thabo Mbeki also paid tribute to the artist.
Ekurhuleni Mayor Mzwandile Masina says we are bidding farewell to a true African gem.
"I urge all the artists to draw strength and inspiration from this icon. Let's emulate her legacy through encouraging the younger generation to pursue a passion in arts," says Masina.
Mthethwa says Klaasen's passing has left a gaping hole in the music industry.
"You embrace love and hope in music. You are asserted a proud and defined love for humanity and what it means to be human. Your songs contributed to the making of the memory of our people. It was not only nostalgic, but also an assertion of a people's culture," says Mthethwa.