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Ladysmith Black Mambazo facts for kids

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Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 2018.jpg
Ladysmith Black Mambazo performing at The Queen's Birthday Party in 2018
Background information
Origin Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Genres Isicathamiya, mbube
Years active 1960–present
Labels
  • Gallo
  • Warner Bros.
  • Shanachie
  • Wrasse
  • Heads Up International
  • Listen2
Members
  • Thulani Shabalala
  • Thamsanqa Shabalala
  • Sibongiseni Shabalala
  • Msizi Shabalala
  • Pius Shezi
  • Albert Mazibuko
  • Abednego Mazibuko
  • Sabelo Mthembu
  • Mfanafuthi Dlamini
Past members
  • Jockey Shabalala
  • Jabulani Dubazana
  • Inos Phungula
  • Ben Shabalala
  • Geophrey Mdletshe
  • Headman Shabalala
  • Milton Mazibuko
  • Funokwakhe Mazibuko
  • Joseph Shabalala
  • Walter Malinga
  • Russel Mthembu

Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a world-famous male singing group from South Africa. They are known for their unique vocal styles called isicathamiya and mbube. These styles involve beautiful harmonies and gentle dance moves.

The group became famous around the world after they sang with American musician Paul Simon. This happened on his 1986 album called Graceland. Since then, they have won many Grammy Awards. They even dedicated their fifth Grammy to the late former President Nelson Mandela.

About Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Ladysmith Black Mambazo was started by Joseph Shabalala in 1960. The group quickly became one of South Africa's most successful recording artists. Many of their albums have sold so well that they earned gold and platinum awards.

Their Unique Sound

The group's music is a special part of South African culture. They share their traditional isicathamiya music with people everywhere. This makes them like a travelling school for South African heritage.

Isicathamiya means "to step softly" in Zulu. It is a singing style that developed in South Africa. It often features soft, quiet harmonies and gentle dance steps. Mbube is another vocal style, which means "lion" in Zulu. It is usually more powerful and loud. Ladysmith Black Mambazo blends these two styles perfectly.

Global Recognition

Their collaboration with Paul Simon on Graceland opened doors for them worldwide. They toured with him and performed for huge audiences. This helped their music reach millions of new fans.

They have performed for many important people and at major events. This includes concerts for royalty and presidents. Their performances are known for being full of joy and energy.

Awards and Achievements

Ladysmith Black Mambazo has won many important awards. They have received five Grammy Awards, which are very prestigious music awards. Winning these awards shows how much their music is loved and respected globally.

They continue to perform and record new music. The group carries on the legacy started by Joseph Shabalala. They keep sharing the beauty of South African vocal music with the world.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Ladysmith Black Mambazo para niños

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