Member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo dies

Albert Mazibuko. (Photo: Facebook)

Albert Mazibuko, singer of the acclaimed group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, died on Sunday morning.

Mazibuko joined the group in 1969 and was part of the group for a total of 55 years, which had many hits over the years. One of them was “World in Union”, with PJ Powers.

The group’s first Grammy Award was in 1988 for their album Shaka Zulu and the last one was in 2018 for Shaka Zulu Revisited: 30th Anniversary Celebration.

Mazibuko became a member of the group when the founder, Joseph Shabalala, asked him to join.

The group says in a statement that Albert Mazibuko became a mentor to the other members after Shabalala’s retirement in 2014. He is described as a very kind-hearted person and someone who loved to travel the world and spread Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s music.

“He never tired of talking about the band’s history and their desire to spread peace, love and harmony wherever they go.”

Mazibuko is described as “one of the best”.

The statement states that anyone who has ever met Mazibuko will know about his beautiful inner and outer appearance.

A tribute on Instagram states that Mazibuko was affectionately referred to as “the librarian” and the keeper of the group’s rich history. “He was truly an intelligent man whose knowledge, humility and quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with him.”