Albert Mazibuko, who sang in the 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 confirmed 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. The group paid tribute to him on Monday, describing him as kind to a fault and a saint who served as a wise elder to younger members.
He loved traveling the world, spreading the mission and music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the statement noted, adding that he often shared the group's history and its aim to promote 'peace, love, and harmony.'
Growing up in the eastern town of uMnambithi, formally known as Ladysmith, Mazibuko left school early to work on a farm. His cousin, Joseph Shabalala, founded Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 1960 and invited Mazibuko to join the group.
The collective blended indigenous Zulu songs with the South African isicathamiya tradition and gained fame with a radio performance in 1970, which led to their first recording contract. In 1973, they released Africa's first gold-selling album, Amabutho. Global recognition followed after Paul Simon enlisted them for Graceland, despite facing criticism for breaching the cultural boycott of apartheid-era South Africa.
Mazibuko was remembered not only as a performer but also as a custodian of South African music, enriching audiences worldwide. His contributions reflected the struggles against apartheid, as the group sang songs of hope and unity during those tumultuous times. Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie praised him for his significant impact in uniting people through his art.
Mazibuko's legacy continues through the current Ladysmith Black Mambazo line-up, a mix of long-standing members and newer voices, who are currently on tour in the US.
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. The group paid tribute to him on Monday, describing him as kind to a fault and a saint who served as a wise elder to younger members.
He loved traveling the world, spreading the mission and music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the statement noted, adding that he often shared the group's history and its aim to promote 'peace, love, and harmony.'
Growing up in the eastern town of uMnambithi, formally known as Ladysmith, Mazibuko left school early to work on a farm. His cousin, Joseph Shabalala, founded Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 1960 and invited Mazibuko to join the group.
The collective blended indigenous Zulu songs with the South African isicathamiya tradition and gained fame with a radio performance in 1970, which led to their first recording contract. In 1973, they released Africa's first gold-selling album, Amabutho. Global recognition followed after Paul Simon enlisted them for Graceland, despite facing criticism for breaching the cultural boycott of apartheid-era South Africa.
Mazibuko was remembered not only as a performer but also as a custodian of South African music, enriching audiences worldwide. His contributions reflected the struggles against apartheid, as the group sang songs of hope and unity during those tumultuous times. Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie praised him for his significant impact in uniting people through his art.
Mazibuko's legacy continues through the current Ladysmith Black Mambazo line-up, a mix of long-standing members and newer voices, who are currently on tour in the US.
