The Nelson Mandela Foundation was saddened to hear of the passing of the founder of Ladysmith Black Mambazo Ntate Joseph Shabalala. He was a South African musical gem and will be sorely missed. We send heartfelt condolences to his family and to everyone associated with Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
Through his performances Ntate Shabalala gave Nelson Mandela much pleasure, and played for Madiba at those two iconic events, his inauguration as President and his acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize. He and Ladysmith Black Mambazo have performed for the Nelson Mandela Foundation as well. We came to know him as strong, but quiet-spoken and humble.
He made us proud. Hamba kahle Ntate.