Shonka Dukureh, a singer and actress who performed in the recently released Baz Luhrmann film “Elvis,” died on Thursday, according to Nashville police.
Shonka Dukureh dies: What’s the cause of death?
The singer had passed away in the bedroom of her apartment. No foul play is suspected, according to the news release. Authorities are awaiting autopsy results from the coroner’s office for an official cause of death.
Shonka Dukureh biography
Shonka Dukureh was an American actress, playwright and author who was originally from Nashville, Tennessee. The talented performer starred in many plays and musicals across the U.S.
She has provided background vocals on albums for multiple Grammy-winning artists. Dukureh also toured internationally with recording artist Jamie Lidell and The Royal Pharaohs.
Dukureh had a starring role this year in “Elvis” as Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton, the iconic R&B singer-songwriter. According to CNN, Dukureh’s role as Thornton was her breakout role and first film appearance. Dukureh’s version of the song Hound Dog, which Thornton recorded in 1952, went viral online after the film was released.
Dukureh reflected on her starring role in “Elvis” in an interview she shared on Instagram last week.
“Gratefulness is where I live cuz my granny, gmama, momma, family modeled and instilled it in me. It isn’t a posture of less than or crumbs scraping, but one that acknowledges good things aren’t a guarantee and when we encounter them thankfulness, gratefulness is the least we can express.”
The actor was highly educated and highly accomplished. Shonka graduated with a bachelor’s degree in theatre. She also achieved a master’s degree in education.
Dukureh said she had previously worked as a second-grade teacher and helped inner-city youth through after-school and summer programs.
Shonka leaves behind two children.
Elvis cast paid tribute to Shonka’s passing
Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, better known as Doja Cat, posted on her Instagram story to tribute to the talented actress.
Shonka appeared in the music video for Doja Cat’s song Vegas, which is also from the movie’s soundtrack. Dukureh also performed with Doja Cat during the Coachella music festival in April.
Director of Elvis biopic Baz Luhrmann honoured the singer on Instagram with a touching caption.