South African choir Ladysmith Black Mambazo, will take to the stage in Taranaki at WOMAD 2016, more than 50 years after Joseph Shabala started the group with his brothers and cousins in Ladysmith, Kwa- Zulu Natal.
Based on the isicathamiya and mbube choral styles, they are perhaps best known around these parts for their collaboration with Paul Simon on his 1986 album Graceland. They also accompanied the late South African president Nelson Mandela to collect his Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
Original member, Albert Mazibuko speaks to Emma Smith on the phone, where he explains the origins of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, which were based on a dream Joseph Shabala had back in 1964.
Music details
Artist: Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Song: Nansi Imali, Kwishi Kwishi, Amafutha Esibane, Nomathemba
Composer: Shabala
Album: Classic Tracks
Label: Shanachie
Artist: Paul Simon
Song: Homeless with Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Composer: Shabala/ Simon
Album: Graceland
Label: Warner
