South African icon Brenda Fassie lights up Times Square in a global tribute

The name Brenda Fassie evokes a powerful mix of pride, nostalgia, and profound sadness at her loss.

Known affectionately as “MaBrr,” Fassie was more than a pop star. She was a revolutionary force, a cultural icon, and a fearless voice for the marginalised. Now, over two decades after her untimely passing, her legacy continues to reverberate across the globe.

Thanks to Spotify’s GLOW initiative, her story has been reintroduced to the world, with tributes that transcend borders and generations.

Born on November 3, 1964, in Cape Town, Fassie displayed her prodigious talent from an early age. Named after American singer Brenda Lee, she began singing for tourists and at church events as a child. At 16, she left Cape Town for Soweto to chase her dream of becoming a singer.

Her hits, including “Weekend Special,” “Too Late for Mama,” and the politically charged “Black President”, became anthems of resistance and celebration. In the 1990s, Fassie famously declared she would no longer sing in English, choosing instead to honour her African roots with songs in Zulu, Xhosa, and Sotho.

But her life wasn’t without turmoil. Struggles with addiction and public scandals often overshadowed her career. Yet, even in her darkest moments, Fassie’s resilience and artistry shone through. Her 1998 album "Memeza" remains one of South Africa’s best-selling records, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

Fassie passed away on May 9, 2004, at the age of 39, but her legacy remains alive and thriving. From Lagos to London, her music continues to inspire joy, courage and defiance.

Times Square glows with Fassie’s radiance.

In a powerful display of her global influence, Spotify GLOW recently lit up New York City’s Times Square with a massive banner of Brenda Fassie.

The bold and vibrant tribute was a reminder of her enduring impact on music, identity, and representation. With her signature energy radiating through the iconic billboard, Fassie stood as a beacon of African pride in the heart of one of the world’s busiest cultural hubs.

Spotify GLOW, an initiative celebrating LGBTQIA+ voices and allies, chose Fassie for her unapologetic authenticity and fearless advocacy.

Her music and persona have long been celebrated for breaking barriers, not only in South Africa but globally.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify's head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, stated, "Brenda Fassie was more than a performer. She was a revolution. Through her voice and truth, she shattered boundaries with her remarkable authenticity. With GLOW, we honour her for who and what she was."

At the heart of this celebration is a short documentary titled "The Impact of Brenda Fassie", which premiered earlier in the month on Spotify’s YouTube channel.

The 10-minute film captures reflections from contemporary South African artists such as Langa Mavuso, Zoë Modiga, Muneyi, and Nanette.

Each artist shares how Fassie’s music, personality, and activism have shaped their artistry and personal journeys. For many, she was not just a musician but a mirror reflecting the struggles, triumphs, and dreams of an entire generation.

This film is more than nostalgia; it’s a bridge between eras, highlighting how Fassie’s sound continues to inspire new generations. Her defiant spirit and unique voice remain a blueprint for young African creatives who dare to challenge norms and redefine identity.

In Johannesburg, Spotify brought Fassie’s story home with an immersive exhibition at The Market Theatre in Newtown.

Curated by cultural maven Maria McCloy, the month-long showcase (running until December 4) features rare photographs, archival footage, personal memorabilia, and iconic performance highlights.

It’s a treasure trove for fans and newcomers alike, an intimate look at the woman who gave South Africa its soundtrack for liberation and joy.

“She gave us so much, not only an album nearly every year from 1983 to 2004, but also hope and boldness,” McCloy reflected, according to 10 and 5.

“She inspired black people, women, and queer people with her immense talent and courage.”

Fans of Fassie’s vibrant life will soon see her legacy brought to television. SABC1 has announced a four-part documentary series titled "Vulindlela", starring award-winning actress Brenda Ngxoli as Fassie.

It premiered on November 15 and explores Fassie’s meteoric rise to fame, her personal struggles, and the creative genius behind her iconic hits like “Weekend Special” and “Vulindlela”.

According to SABC1’s channel head, Ofentse Thinane, the series is a tribute to Fassie’s fearless spirit: “Brenda Fassie is a prime example of chasing your dreams and challenging the status quo. Her story is one of resilience, brilliance, and the chaos that shaped her artistry.”

Spotify’s glowing tribute and the "Vulindlela" series are just the latest chapters in a story that refuses to fade.