World-renowned jazz musician Tsepo Tshola has died aged 67.

According to Timeslive, Tshola, who is also known as the “Village Pope”, succumbed to a Covid-19-related illness this morning in Teyateyaneng, Lesotho.

His death was confirmed by his family in a brief statement.

The statement added that further details will follow in due time.

Tshola came to prominence with Sankomota, a group he cofounded and co-led with the late Frank Leepa.

He came to SA in the early 80s where he was an immediate hit and broke all kinds of records.