Estelle Kokot - February 16, 2026 - South African-British singer and pianist (1962-2026)

The news of the death of the South African-English pianist, singer, composer, teacher, ‘Rainbow Child’, “a powerful, soulful and independent artist” (John Fordham) and a unique unifying force between the UK and the South African scenes Estelle Kokot comes as a shock.

She passed away in the early hours of Monday morning 16 February at the age of 63. Following a sudden and unexpected stroke last week, she was admitted to the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Queen Square, where she died.

About a year ago, she gave an interview to Nothemba Madumo in Cape Town (link below), in which her unquenchable enthusiasm for life, for singing, for teaching, for choirs both professional and amateur, for swimming, for the musicians she works with, for the simple “smell of the soil after it’s rained”, is palpable.

Kate Shortt, her long term friend, neighbour and collaborator writes in tribute:

It’s almost impossible to believe that the South African singer songwriter Estelle Kokot has flown. Estelle was (and that still feels bizarre not to say ‘is’) the most beautiful magnetic soul whose larger than life energy was an inspiration. She was funny, passionate and a natural empathy. She cared deeply about the world and championed injustice.

She was a nurturer, a mentor, a brilliant teacher, an inspirer, a freedom giver, and a unique song writer who gave us songs that were full of integrity and fascinating harmonies, beautiful lyrics and hypnotic melodies. She provided endless musical stimulation playing recent material in the making that would make you hunger for more. She would also satiate your hunger with fabulous cooking! Rehearsing and playing with her was addictive. T

he constant conversational flow would move hours into minutes. She cared deeply about people and cared for them being the best they could be. There was more to come from Estelle but how grateful we are for what she left behind.

Thank you Estelle

Kate Shortt

Source: https://ukjazznews.com/rip-estelle-kokot-1962-2026/

Estelle Kokot - The Perfect Way (solo performance)

Estelle Kokot singing Madness with Rush Hour

Estelle Kokot - County Blues

 

R.I.P