Family, friends and fellow musicians gathered in KwaZulu-Natal to honour the life of the late Albert Mazibuko. Image: Supplied
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
1Min
South Africa
Farewell to Ladysmith Black Mambazo co-founder Albert Mazibuko
Family, friends and fellow musicians gathered in KwaZulu-Natal to honour the life of the late Albert Mazibuko, remembered for his dedication, humility and lasting contribution to South African music.
Founding member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Albert Mazibuko, has been laid to rest at his homestead in Estcourt on Saturday morning.
Mazibuko passed away last week at the age of 77 after a short illness. His funeral service, held in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, brought together loved ones and members of the music community to bid farewell to one of the group’s pioneering figures.
The ceremony also served as a tribute to a life marked by humility, commitment and mentorship. Mazibuko was remembered by colleagues as a devoted artist who played a key role in shaping the group’s legacy.
Fellow group member Thulani Shabalala described Mazibuko as an irreplaceable figure.
“We’ve been deeply saddened and heartbroken. He was our icon and legend who taught us so much. The past two weeks have been incredibly difficult for us,” he said.
Born in the Embuzweni area of Ladysmith, Mazibuko was a retired member of the globally acclaimed isicathamiya ensemble, which has earned multiple Grammy Awards over a career spanning more than five decades.
He was widely respected for his contribution to the arts and for helping to elevate Ladysmith and the surrounding Estcourt region onto the international stage.
