A Sound Like No Other

Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder Joseph Shabalala retired from the group four years ago, but he created a phenomenon that has stood the test of time.

- Zama Chutshela

SIXTY albums, four sought-after Grammy Awards, and one farm boy-turned-musical maestro who set it all in motion – Joseph Shabalala has every reason to be proud. Ladysmith Black

Mambazo, the all-male a capella group he formed over five decades ago, has been nominated for two more Grammys.

Yet the founder won’t be able to join the members of the legendary group when they head off to the 60th Grammy Awards in New York later this month. Instead, Joseph (76), who’s been battling ill health, will watch the star-studded event on TV with his wife, Thoko Shabalala (60).

When we meet her at their home in Clermont, Durban, Thoko tells us Joseph retired from the Grammy-winning group in 2014 – the same year his health deteriorated. “He had a problem with his spinal cord, which affected his mobility. An operation was performed but didn’t work,” Thoko explains.

“He can walk but not as fast as he used to; he needs to be supported. His eyesight has also deteriorated, which makes things even harder for him.”

Age has also taken a toll on Joseph. “He’s weak but he is coping. He still enjoys travelling, reading and listening to gospel music but, due to his poor health, he spends most of his time here at home.”

Joseph isn’t well enough to sit in on our interview but Thoko says the family keeps him up to date with Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s progress. “He might be out of sight but he’s still very close to the group. He is very much aware of what’s happening in the group. He’s very excited about the Grammy nominations and his prayers are with them.”

Thoko, who’s been married to Joseph for 15 years, says prayer has always been a cornerstone for her husband.