Sad Note: Ladysmith Black Mambazo Founder Joseph Shabalala Has Passed Away
Sad Note: Ladysmith Black Mambazo Founder Joseph Shabalala Has Passed Away. South Africa has just received the sad news that one of it’s veteran musicians Joseph Tshabalala has died at the age of 78.
The Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder died at Life Eugene Marais Hospital on Tuesday. Although details surrounding his death are still sketchy the group’s manager Xolani Majozi said that Shabalala was suffering from complications from a back surgery that left him wheelchair bound.
Majozi further said Shabalala was with his wife, Thokozile Shabalala, during his last moments. The news broke out while Ladysmith Black Mambazo is on tour in the US.
Shabalala retired from the Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 2014 as a result of his health deteriorating. His ill health meant he was no longer able to travel or attend events with the group. Shabalala then officially handed over leadership of Ladysmith Black Mambazo to his son Sibongiseni.
Condolences to his family and fans all over the world.
