Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Ladysmith Black Mambazo graced us with their presence on their mission to, "bring the peace and harmony of South Africa throughout the world." Sans the typical array of musical instruments you might expect to hear from such exotic regions, their harmonious, deep soul-filled rhythms were rich and full, yet compromised only vocals. Synchronized footwork and dancing accompanied some of the music.

From their website, “the traditional music sung by Ladysmith Black Mambazo is called ISICATHAMIYA (Is-Cot-A-Me-Ya). It was born in the mines of South Africa.” A typical song included a backbeat from the eight-person rhythm section, and vocalist Joseph Shabalala harmonizing a lead with his higher-pitched voice.