ANC congratulates Ladysmith Black Mambazo

“[We] take great pride in Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s achievement, which the group dedicated to the memory and legacy of former president Nelson Mandela,” spokesman Jackson Mthembu said in a statement.

The Grammy awards took place on Sunday in Los Angeles, US.

“The success of Mambazo does not only reflect on the choir’s great creativity and talent, but undoubtedly Africa’s rise and achievement on the global stage.”

Agence France-Presse reported that the award was shared with flamenco fusionists, the Gipsy Kings.

Mambazo won Best World Music Album for their album “Singing for Peace Around the World”.

The ensemble, led by founder Joseph Shabalala, was thrust before a global audience in 1986 when it collaborated on Paul Simon’s ground-breaking Grammy-winning album “Graceland” and joined the US songwriter’s ensuing tour.

Their album “Shaka Zulu”, produced by Simon, netted their first Grammy in 1988 for Best Folk Recording.

The group was awarded two more Grammys for “Raise Your Spirit Higher” in 2004 and “Ilembe” in 2009.

Mthembu said the ANC trusted that Mambazo’s accomplishments would encourage young musicians to strive for such accolades while also moving the country’s music industry forward.

– Sapa