Untold story of local musical greats
Award-winning South African director and storyteller Phumelelo Mbele, aka Supa, and award-winning production company Free Women Films are to make a documentary honouring the Life of Dr Joseph Shabalala, pictured, multiple Grammy award-winning musician and founding member of the Zulu male choral group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
The documentary follows the musical journey and lives of these iconic South African musical heroes from humble beginnings to their acclaimed international success. It also showcases traditional Zulu music and vocal styles of isicathamiya and mbube, while focusing on the profound influence that their unique musical style had on South Africa.
“As a director, it is an honour to be given the opportunity to tell the story of this amazing legend Joseph Shabalala,” said Mbele who directed E-Jackpot, a 45-minute film for M-Net.
“What he and Ladysmith Black Mambazo have done is something that we, as a country, still do not comprehend. It is my hope that this film will inform and educate viewers about the contribution they have made, musically, politically and spiritually in our lives.”
The filmmakers will work closely with the Dr Joseph Shabalala Foundation and Thoko Shabalala, wife of Shabalala.
“I am so excited that finally the dream and legacy of Dr Joseph Shabalala will be realised. This project has my blessing and I am looking forward to working with the director, Phumelelo Supa Mbele, and Free Women Films,” said Thoko Shabalala.
Filming will take place in the world heritage site of the uKhahlamba region of KwaZuluNatal, where Dr Shabalala was born and lived his whole life.
The documentary and series will be made with the support of the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission.
“As one of the producers, it is a privilege to be associated with this iconic South African musician” said Judi Nwokedi, secretary-general of the Black Business Council and executive producer for Free Women Films.
“Dr Shabalala’s music displays the profound spirit and gentleness of a musical genius.”