Minister pays tribute to Ladysmith Black Mambazo icon Albert Mazibuko
The music world is in mourning following the death of the final remaining member of an iconic 'isicathamiya' group’s original 1960s line-up.
South Africa is mourning the loss of a cultural icon following the death of Albert Mazibuko, the longest-serving member and final link to the original Ladysmith Black Mambazo line-up.
Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie joined various tributes for the 77-year-old, who passed away yesterday.
Mazibuko was a cousin of the world-renowned group’s founder, the late Joseph Shabalala. According to group lore, Shabalala had a series of dreams in the 1960s about a new style of harmony and recruited Mazibuko in 1969 to help turn those dreams into the sound that would define isicathamiya: A South African, all-male, a cappella singing style originating from Zulu migrant workers.
Mazibuko was born on June 1, 1948, in uMnambithi (previously Ladysmith) in KZN. During his tenure, the group won five Grammy Awards. Their first win was for the 1987 album Shaka Zulu, which Mazibuko previously described as a tribute to Zulu courage and perfection. He was known for his distinctive alto harmonies and being a key teacher within the group, helping to mentor Shabalala’s sons as they transitioned into leadership roles.
McKenzie says his passing is a loss not only for South Africa’s music industry, but for the nation as a whole.
“[He] was more than a performer; he was the custodian of a uniquely South African sound that travelled across the world and united people through music. Through Ladysmith Black Mambazo, he helped carry the story, resilience and soul of our nation onto the global stage,” says the minister, adding Mazibuko and his fellow members of the group showed the world the beauty of our traditions and the power of harmony.
According to McKenzie, his voice and presence will be deeply missed, but the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire generations of artists.
“On behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the people of South Africa, I extend my sincere condolences to the Mazibuko family, the members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the music community, and all South Africans mourning the loss of a beloved cultural icon.
“May his soul rest in peace, and may his music continue to remind us who we are as a people.”
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