Albert Mazibuko, who sang in iconic South African group Ladysmith Black Mambazo for more than five decades, has died aged 77. The musician's death on Sunday came after a short illness, as posted by the choral group on their Facebook page.
Mazibuko joined Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 1969 and the collective went on to win five Grammy awards and feature on Paul Simon's acclaimed 1986 Graceland album. Ladysmith Black Mambazo paid tribute to Mazibuko on Monday, describing him as kind to a fault and a saint who acted as a wise elder for the group's younger members.
He loved traveling the world, spreading the mission and music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the statement said, emphasizing his commitment to spreading 'peace, love and harmony' through their music.
He was born in uMnambithi (Ladysmith) and joined the group founded by his cousin, Joseph Shabalala, which became globally recognized for its fusion of Zulu songs and isicathamiya style. Mazibuko spoke fondly of their journey towards creating impactful, hopeful music during the era of apartheid in South Africa, a system from which the group’s messages of unity and hope emerged triumphantly. His contributions to the music world will not be forgotten.
Mazibuko joined Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 1969 and the collective went on to win five Grammy awards and feature on Paul Simon's acclaimed 1986 Graceland album. Ladysmith Black Mambazo paid tribute to Mazibuko on Monday, describing him as kind to a fault and a saint who acted as a wise elder for the group's younger members.
He loved traveling the world, spreading the mission and music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the statement said, emphasizing his commitment to spreading 'peace, love and harmony' through their music.
He was born in uMnambithi (Ladysmith) and joined the group founded by his cousin, Joseph Shabalala, which became globally recognized for its fusion of Zulu songs and isicathamiya style. Mazibuko spoke fondly of their journey towards creating impactful, hopeful music during the era of apartheid in South Africa, a system from which the group’s messages of unity and hope emerged triumphantly. His contributions to the music world will not be forgotten.
