Ladysmith Black Mambazo Announces UK Tour
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF FOUNDER JOSEPH SHABALALA
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is one of the world’s greatest and most distinctive vocal groups, and this June they will tour the UK including four performances in London
WEBSITE: serious.org.uk/events/series/mambazo
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is one of the world’s greatest and most distinctive vocal groups. For sixty years the legendary a cappella male choir have invoked the soul of South Africa with their intricate rhythms and harmonies and powerful, uplifting songs.
They shot to global stardom after featuring on Paul Simon’s Graceland album and have been touring the world ever since, and have won five GRAMMY Awards.
For sixty years Ladysmith Black Mambazo has sung powerful, uplifting songs that emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. Nelson Mandela called Ladysmith “South Africa’s cultural ambassadors”. The group’s joyously energetic performance combines loud powerful choruses with softer, almost whispering, chants where voices blend harmoniously, and tightly choreographed dance moves.
These performances will celebrate the life and music of Joseph Shabalala, the founder of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and are dedicated to his memory.
When Joseph formed the group that became Ladysmith Black Mambazo, 60 years ago, he had a dream of a South Africa living in harmony. For all his life he created beautiful vocal music that came to speak to the whole world with a call for peace and love. Joseph retired in 2014 and handed leadership of Ladysmith Black Mambazo to his four sons Thulani, Msizi, Sibongiseni and Thamsanqa, who carry Joseph’s message into the future.
JUNE 2020 LISTINGS
Friday 5 – OXFORD, New Theatre
Saturday 6 – LONDON, Alexandra Palace Theatre
Sunday 7 – BIRMINGHAM, Symphony Hall
Tuesday 9 – POOLE, Lighthouse
Wednesday 10 – YORK, Grand Opera House
Thursday 11 – MANCHESTER, Bridgewater Hall
Friday 12 – EDINBURGH, Usher Hall
Monday 15 – BEXHILL, De La Warr Pavilion
Tuesday 16 – BRIGHTON, Theatre Royal
Wednesday 17 – GUILDFORD G, Live
Thursday 18 – LONDON, Richmond Theatre
Saturday 20 – SAFFRON WALDEN, Saffron Hall
Sunday 21 – LONDON, Queen Elizabeth Hall
*two shows as part of Grace Jones’ Meltdown
Monday 22 – MILTON KEYNES Theatre
