Afrikaans superstar Theuns Jordaan has died after a short battle with cancer at the age of 50 today. The singer was diagnosed with leukemia in September 2020 and received chemotherapy and underwent a bone marrow transplant on 5 March.
While some reports reveal that he was in remission, the singer ultimately succumbed to the illness.
The singer, who was well known for hits like ‘Hakkieshart’, ‘Hillbrow’, ‘Sal Jy Bly’ and ‘Soos Bloed’, released his debut album ‘Vreemde Stad’ in 2000 and remained a prominent figure in the Afrikaans music space since.
Naturally, tributes from those close to the star poured in once news of the star’s death spread. Coenie de Villiers told the Mail & Guardian of the “visceral shock” of hearing about Jordaan’s death, adding: “We thought that things were getting better. Theuns will always be with us and he will always be known for the rich sound of his voice and his wonderful integrity and quality of his music, which has become a stock standard part of [the] South African [music landscape], especially in the Afrikaans market,” De Villiers said.
Bobby Van Jaarsveld, in a Facebook tribute, added “I honour you for the mentor you were to me. We have walked such a long road together and didn’t realize it was going to end so quickly. I was your first artist that you drew. You fought hard for me and I just couldn’t believe that the great giant of an icon believes in me.” He continues saying Thank you for the tours, the songs, the shows, the lessons you taught me so much. You are one of the main roles in my career and a big reason that I am where I am today. I couldn’t do it without you. No one will ever be able to forget you. I love you brother! See you one day…”
RIP, Theuns. Thank you for the music.
