About Ladysmith Black Mambazo

The name Ladysmith Black Mambazo came about as a result of winning every singing competition in which the group entered. "Ladysmith" is the hometown of the Shabalala family; "Black" makes reference to black oxen, considered to be the strongest on the farm. The Zulu word "Mambazo" refers to an ax - symbolic of the group's ability to "chop down" the competition. So good were they that after a time they were forbidden to enter the competitions but welcomed, of course, to entertain at them.

Members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Joseph Shabalala (founder, musical director and lead vocals)
Thamsanqa Shabalala (second in command)
Sibongiseni Shabalala
Thulani Shabalala
Msizi Shabalala
Albert Mazibuko
Abednego Mazibuko
Russel Mthembu
Mfanafuthi Dlamini

Former Members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Jockey Shabalala
Jabulani Dubazana
Inos Phungula
Ben Shabalala
Geophrey Mdletshe
Headman Shabalala

Milton Mazibuko
Funokwakhe Mazibuko
Joseph Mazibuko
Walter Malinga
Matovoti Msimanga