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Ladysmith Black Mambazo
South Africa’s cultural ambassadors arrive
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South African a cappella troupe Ladysmith Black Mambazo trilled their way into the mainstream by lending their distinct sound to Paul Simon’s Graceland in 1986; appearing on Sesame Street, singing the Zulu alphabet with Kermit; and collaborating with Stevie Wonder and the late Michael Jackson. Nelson Mandela even declared them “South Africa’s cultural ambassadors”. As youngsters rediscover the magic of Graceland, thanks to comparisons to rock groups like Vampire Weekend, they fortunately encounter Ladysmith, beginning their world music education. In 2010, the nine-man group furthers that education, sturdily standing alone and bringing their traditional music to 41 U.S. cities, including two nights in New York!
Ladysmith’s immediately recognizable signature style, isicathamiya—a harmonious, muted blending of traditional Zulu mbube, a cappella singing and movement—originated amongst South African miners far from home, who sang together late nights. Joseph Shabalala formed Ladysmith around this music in 1964, entering them in local isicathmiya competitions. He named the group after his home city Ladysmith, and mambazo, the Zulu word for axe, hoping to chop down the other performers. Their memorable performances won so often, it resulted in the group being banned from the competitions.
Their 2009 Grammy-winning album, Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu, refers to the legendary Zulu leader as “The Greatest Warrior.” Two Hundred years after his death, Ladysmith are “trying to remind people of the importance of what this man did.” According to Shabalala, “There are still many people who need to be filled with the spirit of unity and hope that Shaka embodied. There have been so many generations that have come and gone since Shaka was king of the Zulus, but there are still many hearts and minds to be conquered.” Clad in color-coordinated, traditional garb, members integrate masterful singing with jerking dance moves and effervescent high kicks that move from one member to the next, prompting prerequisite audience-participation clapping—for both the new songs and the classics. Ladysmith conquers—just coyly.
Feb. 3: Highline Ballroom
431 W. 16th St.; 212-414-5994
www.highlineballroom.com
Feb. 4: B.B. King’s
237 W. 42nd St.; 212-997-4144
www.bbkingblues.com