Ladysmith Black Mambazo Founding Member Albert Mazibuko Passes Away at 77
Albert Mazibuko, a legendary singer and long-standing member of the Grammy-winning South African choral group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, has died at the age of 77. Mazibuko, who performed with the group for an impressive 55 years, passed away on Sunday, 5 April 2026, following a brief illness.
Group Announces Death on Social Media
His fellow group members announced the sad news on Facebook the following day, expressing their profound grief. "It is with immense sadness that we tell you that our brother, Albert Mazibuko, has left us this Easter Sunday to be with his saviour in heaven," they wrote. The statement continued, "We will update you with further news, videos and pictures celebrating the life of Albert. We cannot express how broken our hearts are at this time."
Early Life and Joining the Group
Born Mdletshe Albert Mazibuko in Ladysmith, South Africa, in 1948, he was the eldest of six brothers. Mazibuko left school at just eight years old to work on a farm, later taking on various manual labour jobs, including a stint in an asbestos factory. In 1969, his life changed when he was invited to join Ladysmith Black Mambazo by founding member Joseph Shabalala, who was also his cousin.
Rise to International Fame
Known for their harmonious a capella singing blended with traditional Zulu songs, the group secured a recording contract one year after Mazibuko joined. They released two albums in 1973, with Amabutho becoming the first gold-selling album in Africa. International recognition came in 1986 when they collaborated on Paul Simon's historic album Graceland and the subsequent world tour. This move was controversial due to accusations that Simon violated the UN-approved cultural boycott of apartheid South Africa, but it ultimately opened the group to a global audience.
Grammy Success and Legacy
Ladysmith Black Mambazo went on to win five Grammy Awards, the most recent in 2018, and even contributed to the soundtrack of The Lion King II: Simba's Pride in 1998. Throughout the group's many lineup changes, Mazibuko remained a constant presence, performing for 55 years and becoming Shabalala's "right hand man." After Shabalala retired in 2014, Mazibuko served as the wise elder for younger members until Shabalala's death in 2020.
Tributes and Legacy
The group's statement praised Mazibuko as a saintly figure, noting his kindness and dedication to spreading their mission of "Peace, Love and Harmony" worldwide. South African politician Gayton McKenzie also paid tribute, saying, "More than a performer, he was the custodian of a uniquely South African sound that travelled across the world and united people through music." Mazibuko's death marks the end of an era for a group that has touched millions with its uplifting harmonies and cultural significance.
