Musician Albert Mazibuko dies at 77
South Africa is mourning the loss of legendary musician Albert Mazibuko, a longtime member of the iconic choral group Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
His passing was confirmed by the group in an emotional Facebook statement on Monday, revealing that he died on Easter Sunday.
“Dear friends, 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,” the group shared.
Mazibuko’s journey with Ladysmith Black Mambazo spans more than five decades, making him one of the most enduring figures in the group’s history.
He joined in 1969 at the invitation of founder Joseph Shabalala and went on to play a central role in shaping its legacy.
“Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder Joseph Shabalala asked Albert to join his singing group in 1969 and, for the next 55 years – that’s right, 55 years – Albert was a member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. He was Joseph’s ‘right-hand man’,” the statement read.
Beyond his musical contributions, Mazibuko became a pillar within the group, especially after Shabalala stepped back from active duties in 2014.
He was described as a guiding figure to younger members, helping preserve the group’s identity and values.
“Albert was a saint. He was kind to a fault. He loved travelling the world, spreading the mission and music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo.”
The group also highlighted his passion for storytelling and media engagement, noting how he often became the voice of the group during interviews.
“He never tired of talking about the group’s history and its desire to spread ‘peace, love and harmony’ everywhere people had ears to listen… He never said no to a chance to talk about Ladysmith Black Mambazo.”
From humble beginnings in the 1960s, Ladysmith Black Mambazo grew into a globally celebrated ensemble, with Mazibuko playing a key role in that rise.
His influence helped solidify the group’s reputation in isicathamiya music, where they became so dominant in competitions that they were eventually barred due to repeated wins.
As tributes begin to pour in, the group says more details and celebrations of his life will be shared in the coming days.
“We cannot express how broken our hearts are at this time,” they said, mourning a man they described as beautiful both inside and out.