Birthday boy Joseph Shabalala has school named after him
Klipriver High School has now been renamed in recognition of the musician, whose world-famous isicathamiya group Ladysmith Black Mambazo is celebrating its 56th anniversary in the music industry
Young and old gathered at Klipriver High School on Sunday morning to celebrate the 76th birthday of music icon Dr Joseph Bhekizizwe Shabalala.
Klipriver High School has now been renamed in recognition of the musician, whose world-famous isicathamiya group (Ladysmith Black Mambazo) is celebrating its 56th anniversary in the music industry.
From now on, Klipriver High School will be known as Dr Joseph Shabalala Secondary School.
Parents, staff and management of the school are excited about the name change.
Pupils from other schools, including Ladysmith High School (LHS), rendered song items to serenade Dr Shabalala and show their love for music.
Dr Shabalala’s family were also present to show their love and support.
The well-organised programme featured many speeches and tributes, and a huge birthday cake was especially made to enjoy on the special day.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo, which former President Nelson Mandela once described as South Africa’s “ambassadors of song”, is now led by Shabalala’s sons – Sibongiseni, Thulani, Thami and Msizi – and also includes his grandsons as members of the group.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a South African male choral group that sings in the vocal styles of isicathamiya and mbube.
They rose to worldwide prominence as a result of singing with Paul Simon on his 1986 album ‘Graceland’ and have won multiple awards, including four Grammy Awards. Their song ‘Homeless’ is known by just about everyone.
They were formed by Joseph Shabalala in 1960 and later became one of South Africa’s most prolific recording artists, with their releases receiving gold and platinum disc honours. The group has become a mobile academy, teaching people about South Africa and its culture. Dr Joseph Shabalala, who started it all, will always be recognised for his humility and great music.
SA President Jacob Zuma’s message was read out and musical instruments were donated by President Zuma’s daughter.
A pledge of R200,000 was made to the school.
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