Ladysmith Black Mambazo loses one of its founding members

South Africa is mourning the loss of legendary musician Albert Mazibuko, a founding member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
 
His passing was confirmed by the group in a Facebook post this morning.
 
Mazibuko joined Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 1969 at the invitation of founder Joseph Shabalala, and remained a central figure in the group for 55 years.
 
Known as Shabalala’s “right-hand man,” Mazibuko later became a leading presence to younger members after Shabalala’s retirement in 2014.
 
He was commonly respected for his kindness, his passion for the group’s history, and his devotion to sharing its message of peace, love and harmony around the world.

Mazibuko also served as a key spokesman for the group, constantly willing to connect with the media and fans alike.