Stirring send-off for SA hero and isicathamiya legend
Award-winning playwright Mbongeni Ngema announced that he will release a new song he co-produced with Ladysmith Black Mambazo leader Joseph Shabalala before he died.
Ngema made the announcement at the funeral service of the musician held at Ladysmith Sport Centre in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Saturday.
Shabalala died from a long undisclosed illness at a Pretoria hospital last Tuesday.
Ngema said Shabalala was already wheelchair-bound when he called him to record their last song.
The Sarafina executive producer said he was hurt that Shabalala would not be around for the release of the song.
“He got to the studio in his wheelchair looking very sick but he stood up to hug me immediately as he saw me,” said Ngema.
Ngema also said the leader of the isicathamiya ensemble did not believe that his music would trend internationally and win him awards, but he kept playing the group’s sound while he was in America and introduced him to international artists who were interested in the sound.
“Shabalala took traditional music to the corners of the world and I appreciate him for that. I also wish that the next generations would follow in his footsteps,” he said.
His son, Nkosinathi Shabalala said they were glad that their father was now resting after he endured much pain.
“We cried as a family but we realised that the country was in tears with us and that made us happy because we could see that we were not by ourselves… He was treated as a hero. Rest in peace Mshengu, we loved you,” said Nkosinathi.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said the Mambazo music united the nation and shared the culture of South Africa with the world for all to see the love and melodies that are building the nation.
He said he was also encouraged to ensure that his dream of having a Black Mambazo academy, that will teach young children isicathamiya, will come true.
The funeral was attended by hundreds of local and international fans. Mitch Goldstein, Soul Brothers and KwaZulu-Natal premier Sihle Zikalala were among mourners.
By Boitumelo Kgobotlo
kgobotlob@sundayworld.co.za
Ngema set to release song recorded with Shabalala
