Albert Mazibuko: Ladysmith Black Mambazo's Legendary Voice

0:00On April 6th, Albert Mazzebuko, the voice behind Lady Smith-Black Mombazo for over 50 years, passed away at 77 after a short illness. The iconic South African group shared the news on Facebook, noting he died on Sunday. Mazzebuko helped them win 5 Grammy Awards and steal the show on Paul Simon's 1986 Graceland album. He joined the crew in 1969, started by his cousin Joseph Shabbalala back in 1960. They mixed zoo songs and dances with Issa-Kathamia a capella style, complete with that smooth shuffling step. The group remembered him as, kind to a fault, a true saint and wise elder for the younger members. They said he loved jetting around the world, sharing their music and mission everywhere he went. From his roots in the eastern town of U. M. Nembithi, once called Lady Smith, Mazzebuko ditched school early to work on a farm. A 1970 radio spot landed them a record deal, and by 1973 their debut album went gold across Africa. His harmony shaped the sound that crossed oceans, leaving a rhythm that

1:04echoes in every Issa-Kathamia beat they passed down. Stay informed with Global News AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with The Story.