The legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo embarked on their SA Legacy Tour in May at The Joburg Theatre, and now they’re bringing their captivating isicathamiya sounds to The Durban Playhouse for the KZN leg of their nationwide tour.
This iconic group, which has clinched the Grammy Award five times over their six-decade existence, will grace Durban with their performances on September 29th, 30th, and October 1st.
Tickets for this musical journey are available at R250.00 on Webtickets.
Later this year, the show will make its way to Cape Town, lighting up The Artscape Theatre from November 16th to 19th.
The grand finale of the tour will take place at Pretoria’s State Theatre from December 14th to 17th, 2023.
At the heart of Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s musical journey lies their role as torchbearers of isicathamiya and indigenous music.
Four years ago, they launched The Ladysmith Black Mambazo Mobile Academy, a program that nurtures young aspiring groups dedicated to isicathamiya and indigenous music.
With the support of the National Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, some of these groups now share the stage with Ladysmith Black Mambazo at international shows and, of course, on this SA Legacy Tour.
In Durban, they will spotlight talent discovered in KwaZulu-Natal, including Africa Mamas from Durban, Umzamo Young Boys from Pietermaritzburg, and Inkinzemnyama from Umsinga.
Sibongiseni Shabalala, a member of the group, explains, “Ladysmith Black Mambazo aims to grow this program and expand it to all nine provinces in the country.
The show will showcase a world-class performance by us and the newly discovered artists, with an aim of inspiring young artists to love and preserve culture and heritage through music.”
Formed in the early 60s, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has left an indelible mark, collaborating with global music icons like Burna Boy, Josh Groban, Paul Simon, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, The Winans, Dolly Parton, and more.
Former president, the late Nelson Mandela hailed them as ‘South African ambassadors of culture and heritage worldwide.’
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Though they spend most of their year performing abroad, this tour holds a special place for their South African fans who have supported them from the beginning.
Sibongiseni Shabalala reflects, “South African audiences first endorsed the success of Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
“From humble beginnings, the group broke records by being the top-selling music group in South Africa in the late 70s and 80s.
“The overwhelming support from South African audiences and neighboring countries paved the way for Ladysmith Black Mambazo to showcase their music globally.”
Albert Mazibuko, a long-time member of the group, adds, “Performing at home is very special because the social issues of South Africa inspired the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo during the dark days of Apartheid till now. Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a mirror of South African Society.”
This national tour is not just about reconnecting with local audiences but also celebrating the legacy of the group since its inception.
Shabalala points out, “The founder of the group, Professor Joseph Shabalala, was a storyteller, and he used music to share his life’s personal experience.
“Singing in front of South African audiences is like the completion of the Lifecycle of the musical journey.”
Durban holds a special place in Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s heart due to its historical significance.
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Shabalala explains, “Ladysmith Black Mambazo regard Durban as their second home, since after Joseph Shabalala migrated to Durban in 1960 he formed Ladysmith Black Mambazo in Durban where he was staying with founding members in Claremont township, near Pinetown, Durban.”
For the Durban shows, expect dynamic and heart-rending music, from Mambazo classics to new songs, all delivered with their signature five-star performance.
