Ladysmith Black Mambazo to take centre stage at Joburg Theatre

Ladysmith Black Mambazo is set to perform at the Joburg Theatre from May 1 to 4 to celebrate 65 years in the music industry. 

After wrapping up their highly acclaimed US tour on April 5, the legendary ensemble are gearing up to bring their signature sound back to their homeland, performing their timeless classics, including Nomathemba and Homeless, as well as their latest songs and unreleased tracks.

“The music has evolved in so many ways; it has been able to reach many people in the world thanks to the collaboration with Paul Simon on the Graceland [album] and many other famous musicians that the group has collaborated with over their years such as Dolly Parton, Michael Jackson, Desree, Hugh Masekela and many, many more,” Sibongiseni Shabalala told TshisaLIVE. 

“Also the relevant song compositions that our father wrote over the years helped to evolve the music.”

Ladysmith Black Mambazo was formed in 1960 by its founder the late Dr Joseph Shabalala. His work as an incredible leader, producer and songwriter put the group on the world map, where they have since won five Grammy awards.

Reflecting on their journey in the industry, Sibongiseni said: “There are many memorable moments but one would be meeting former President Nelson Mandela for the first time, performing for him on his birthday in 1993, and accompanying him to Oslo where he accepted his Nobel peace prize with the then president FW de Klerk.”

After their performances in Joburg, Ladysmith Black Mambazo will continue their national tour, bringing their melodic harmonies and infectious rhythms to Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria. Stay tuned for more details on the upcoming tour dates.