Shabalala ‘carved a legacy in the music industry’

LADYSMITH Black Mambazo founder Joseph Shabalala was known for his unique “isicathamiya” sound that was celebrated worldwide.

His group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo which he founded in the early 1960s after finding interest in isicathamiya harmonies, is the first South African musical group to win multiple Grammys.

Their first Grammy award came from their first worldwide release, Shaka Zulu, which was released in 1988.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo have recorded with numerous international artists, including Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton, Sarah McLachlan, Josh Groban, Emmylou Harris, Melissa Etheridge and many others.

However, in 2014, Shabalala retired and passed the leadership torch to his sons Thulani, Sibongiseni, and Thamsanqa Shabalala who have been part of the group since 1993.

For over 50 years, Shabalala led Ladysmith Black Mambazo to greener pastures and this is how South Africans remember him now that he has passed on.

“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” – Hotstix @siphohotstix

“#RIPJosephShabalala the founder and musical director of the five-time Grammy winning South African group @ therealmambazo Akalalanga uguqe ngamadolo.” – eThekwini Municipality (@eThekwiniM)

“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.”

– South African Government (@GovernmentZA)

“BREAKING: World-renowned isicathamiya musician and Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder, Bab’ Joseph Shabalala has died. Under his leadership, his group has won 5 Grammys and carved a legacy in the music industry locally and abroad. Condolences to his family and industry colleagues.” – SAMRO (@SAMROMusic)

“A giant tree has fallen. #RIPJosephShabalala.” – Terry Pheto (@TerryPheto)

“We all die. The goal isn’t to live forever, the goal is to create something that will. #RIPJosephShabalala?” – AkhiweOutNow (@OskidoIBelieve)