News Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder, Joseph Shabalala, has died

[The Nth Doctor]

Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder, Joseph Shabalala, died today at the age of 78.

I've been a big fan of Ladysmith Black Mambazo since I was a kid when I first heard them in the short animated film How the Leopard Got His Spots (and then I discovered Graceland and Paul Simon...). I got to see them in concert while I was in college and it was an incredible experience.

Rest in peace, Joseph Shabalala. Thank you for the music.

 

[StarCruiser]

I always got the impression that he rose above the Apartheid era he lived in. While Mandela was trying to change things from the political side - he just made good music and served as an ambassador for his people.

 

[DrCorby]

Sorry to hear this. Like many others, I first learned about Ladysmith Black Mambazo from Paul Simon's wonderful Graceland album. Over the years, I saw them on PBS and other venues, and heard Joseph Shabalala interviewed a few times. He was always passionate about the music, and hopeful that his country would rise from the hateful apartheid system. An amazing legacy.

 

[Morpheus 02]

I loved their music and especially Joseph 's unique voice. I regret never seeing them in concert