S. Africa's 'Black Madonna' dies in coma

[United Press International]

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, May 9 (UPI) -- One of South
Africa's most popular singers, Brenda Fassie, died Sunday in a
Johannesburg hospital at age 39, the BBC reported.
Fassie was known as the girl with the golden voice and as
South Africa's "Black Madonna." She was taken to the hospital two
weeks ago with brain damage following a heart attack.
Fassie had been at the top of South African music for 20
years but was also known for outbursts of temper and a long battle
with drugs. Her singing, however, drew many fans from across Africa,
including former South African President Nelson Mandela.
Her family confirmed on Sunday she had suffered brain damage
following a cardio-respiratory arrest.