We are sad to announce that Joseph Shabalala, the founder of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, has died in South Africa
When Joseph formed the group that became Ladysmith Black Mambazo 60 years ago, he had a dream of a South Africa in harmony, and all his life he created great vocal music that came to speak to the whole world.
Joseph retired in 2014 and handed leadership of Ladysmith Black Mambazo to his four sons Thulani, Msizi, Sibongiseni and Thamsanqa, who carry Joseph's song of a united South Africa into the future.
We at Serious have been proud to tour Ladysmith Black Mambazo for many years. We knew Joseph as a man of warmth and humour who loved his family and was always inspired by the music he and the group made.
Later this week the group, who are currently on tour in the USA, will be announcing a British tour in June. This has been months in the planning, and today they have decided to go ahead with these concerts in order to celebrate the life and music of their father and founder Joseph Shabalala and to ensure his music lives on.
The BBC have paid tribute to Joseph's life https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-51458177
