Municipality extends condolences after passing of Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder

After news broke about the death of Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder, Joseph Shabalala, the Newcastle Municipality has extended its condolences.

In an official statement, Head of Communications at the municipality, Mlungisi Khumalo said the municipality and Mayor, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba joined millions of Black Mambazo fans in mourning the untimely passing of Shabalala.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and members the of the Black Mambazo group. For decades, Shabalala has blessed us with his unique vocal styles of ‘Isicathamiya and Mbube’, and has collaborated with some of the world’s leading musicians. We will never forget the momentous occasion when the late ubaba Shabalala led the group to the Grammy awards for the first time,” read the statement.

While in prison, the late President Nelson Mandela also found strength in the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, which was also accused of violating South Africa’s cultural boycott in the late 1980s, when the group collaborated with Paul Simon on the album Graceland.

Shabalala detested the laws of apartheid and hated the oppression of black people during the apartheid years.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of ‘ubaba’ Joseph Shabalala. Indeed we have been robbed as a country, and a giant tree has fallen. We will miss his wisdom and understanding of music. Many of us drew inspiration from ‘ubaba’ uShabalala, who at most times stood for what he believed in. He’s love for the people, in particular the youth, will be dearly missed. Rest in peace Mshengu, phumula ‘Donga luka Mavuso’. May God be with his family and members of the group in this difficult period,” remarked Dr Mahlaba.

ALSO READ: Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder Dr Joseph Shabalala passes away

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