The 77-year-old isicathamiya legend passed away on Easter Sunday after a short illness, leaving behind a global musical legacy.
By Bulelwa Hoala
South African five-time Grammy Award-winning isicathamiya group Ladysmith Black Mambazo has confirmed the passing of its longstanding member, Mdletshe Albert Mazibuko.
He was 77.
According to a statement shared on the group’s official Facebook page, Mazibuko passed away on Easter Sunday, 5 April 2026, surrounded by his family following a short illness.
“It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of Mr Albert Mazibuko (77), born in Ladysmith, Embuzweni. A revered elder, cultural custodian, and long-standing member of the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo,” the statement read.
“Albert Mazibuko dedicated over five decades of his life to music, having joined the group in 1969. His voice and presence became a defining part of Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s sound, contributing to a legacy that resonated across South Africa and the world.”
Mazibuko was a member of the group for 55 years after founder Joseph Shabalala invited him to join in 1969.
Following Shabalala’s retirement in 2014, Mazibuko became known as “the librarian” due to his vast knowledge of the group’s history and the wisdom he shared with younger members.
His final performance with Ladysmith Black Mambazo was at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town in 2023, where he took his last bow.
The group is currently on tour in the United States, with its final performances scheduled for 6 April in Minneapolis, 8 April in San Antonio, and 10 April in Dallas.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo has extended its heartfelt condolences to the Mazibuko family and has asked that they be afforded privacy during this difficult time.
More details will be communicated in due course.
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