By Lehlohonolo Lehana.

Internationally renowned and multi award-winning jazz artist Gloria Bosman has died at the age of 50.

Joy of jazz founder Peter Tladi confirmed Bosman's death and said the industry has lost a good-hearted giant. "There will never be one like her" Tladi said.

Bosman was born in Soweto and was a jazz, african, rock, and gospel vocalist. She was also an accomplished producer, composer and presenter.

Her musical career began at a church choir in Mofolo Soweto. The two time SAMA award winner was then scouted for a production at the Market Theatre in 1993 and later earned a scholarship to study opera at the Pretoria Technikon. Bosman had an illustrious career.

She has shared the stage with musical legends including Hugh Masekela, Sibongile Khumalo, Moses Molelekwa, Tananas, and Sipho Mabuse.

Her five albums have all been an unmitigated success: Her debut offering, Tranquillity, earned an award for Best Newcomer as well as nominations for Best Contemporary Jazz Album and Best Female Artist at the 2001 SAMAs.

Her second album, The Many Faces Of Gloria Bosman, featured collaborations with some of the finest musicians in South Africa and has earned her nominations for both Best Southern African Artist and Most Promising Female Artist at the prestigious KORA Awards of 2001, as well as a SAMA nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album.

The Bosman's family released a statement confirming her death.

In the statement, the family has asked to be given space during this this time of overwhelming grief.

Bosman is survived by her only daughter and grandchild.

Tributes have started flowing from celebrities and ordinary South Africans alike.

The legendary artist was 50 years old and had her last performance at the Guild Theatre in East London on Saturday. She released her latest project, Gloria Bosman Live, on 28 February.

In his tribute, veteran musician Sipho Hotstix Mabuse thanked her for sharing the stage and her gift.

"(I) am shattered, Rest in Peace my dear friend," he tweeted.

SAMRO, where Gloria was a non-executive board member, also shared their condolences. 

In a statement released on Tuesday, the South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) says they are saddened by her death. 

She was appointed to the board of SAMRO at its last AGM in December 2022.

SAMRO Board chairperson Nicholas Maweni says she added a perspective that comprised of a rich blend of insights on member aspirations as well as the direction our organisation should continue to march towards.

"Ms Bosman was an energetic and passionate board member who fully supported the organisation's strategic direction, including diversifying income streams and vigorously protecting members' interests by ensuring compliance with relevant legislation."

Maweni says the industry has lost a giant and they are all saddened by her death.  

Rob Cowling, General Manager of Gallo Music, said in a statement: "Terrible news and such a shame; she was an amazing lady and one of the first female artists signed to sheer sound back in 1999 leading to a fruitful relationship of awards and more music. She will be sorely missed, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to all friends and family."