Aura Msimang was born in South Africa. Her parents left their country because of their political activity. Aura lived most of her life abroad, in New York, Paris, and Brussels. In 1987, she settled in France. Aura accompanied Jimmy Cliff in his "African and European Tours" and, in 1980, took part in the film "Bongo Man". In 1981, Aura accompanied Cedella Booker and The Wailers for the concert in homage to Bob Marley. In 1997, Aura Msimang visited South Africa and her family for the first time since her departure.