Albert Mazibuko of Ladysmith Black Mambazo Dies at 77

Albert Mazibuko, a longtime member of the renowned South African choral group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, died on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the age of 77 following a short illness. The group, based in KwaZulu-Natal, confirmed his passing in a statement, noting that he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Mazibuko joined Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 1969 at the invitation of founder Joseph Shabalala, his cousin, and remained with the ensemble for more than 55 years. Born in Ladysmith, he became a cornerstone of the group's signature isicathamiya style, blending a cappella harmonies with traditional Zulu songs. His deep bass voice and steady presence helped shape the sound that propelled the group from local competitions to international acclaim. Over the decades, Ladysmith Black Mambazo won five Grammy Awards, collaborated with artists such as Paul Simon on the 1986 album Graceland, and performed with figures including Stevie Wonder and Dolly Parton. The partnership with Simon, despite an international cultural boycott of apartheid-era South Africa, introduced the group's music to global audiences and highlighted themes of hope and unity during a turbulent period.