American R&B singer Joe Thomas has become the first recipient of the Ndlala Mall Walk of Fame star.

In a statement on Saturday, the organisers said Thomas’ recognition marks the beginning of a tradition that will celebrate influential figures in music, art, and culture.

Thomas, who signed to Polygram Records in 1992, rose to fame the following year with the release of his debut album Everything. He went on to enjoy major success under Jive Records, delivering a string of acclaimed albums including All That I Am (1997), the international bestseller My Name Is Joe (2000), Better Days (2001) and And Then… (2003).

Several of his singles dominated both pop and R&B charts. These include the chart-topping Stutter, top-ten hits All the Things Your Man Won’t Do, Don’t Wanna Be a Player and I Wanna Know, as well as standout collaborations such as Faded Pictures and Thank God I Found You with Mariah Carey.