THE legendary founder of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Joseph Tshabalala has died.
The Southern African Music Rights Organisation confirmed the news today.
The 78 year old has been suffering with ill health and had several back surgeries in the last five years. His son Sibongiseni Shabalala took over as the lead as a result as his father could no longer travel. Well known for his bass vocals, Tshabalala started the group in 1960 with his brothers, Headman and his cousins Albert and Abednego Mazibuko.
They are world renowned and have shared the stage with artist including Paul Simon, who enlisted the group for his 1986 album Graceland.
It won Grammy of the year, brought the group world fame and they have won several Grammy awards since.
His life was also honoured in a stage production by Desmond Dube, Mshengu: The Musical, last year.
Today, Sibongiseni, his brothers Thamsanqa, Msizi and Thulani Shabalala, and the group’s oldest member, Alfred Mazibuko, are still part of Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
They are also currently on tour in the US.
We would like to extend our condolences on the passing of Joseph Shabalala who was the founder of the group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Ulale ngoxolo Tata ugqatso lwakho ulufezile. #RIPJosephShabalala [Photo: Flicker: Seth Gordon] pic.twitter.com/Sazg9hoWew
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) February 11, 2020
We all die. The goal isn't to live forever, the goal is to create something that will. #RIPJosephShabalala 💔 pic.twitter.com/jpB6c3r2nj
— KeepHopeAlive (@OskidoIBelieve) February 11, 2020
My friend… a giant humble man , Joseph Shabalala, passed away this morning.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends #RIPJosephShabalala Rest In Peace Joseph 😰 pic.twitter.com/YkLggD6EPM— Hotstix (@siphohotstix) February 11, 2020
By Somaya Stockenstroom
