LadySmith Black Mambazo

“But… you love LadySmith Black Mambazo!” cries Cady’s distraught mother in the beloved cult favorite Mean Girls. You may have seen signs promoting the group around campus but strain to recall where you have heard the distinct name. The talented a cappella group is featured throughout the movie, with South African songs, drumbeats and strains swelling in the background. The group, founded by leader Joseph Shabalala, sings in the style of Isacathamiya (is-cot-a-me-ya), stemming from the suppressed South African mine workers who sang to forget surrounding harsh conditions.

After their first radio broadcast in 1970, the group has sold over seven million records and has collaborated with countless artists, including Paul Simon, Josh Grobin, Natalie Merchant, Sarah McLaughlin, Ben Harper and Stevie Wonder. They have been nominated for over a dozen Grammy Awards; their most recent Grammy win was for Best Traditional World Music CD. The group strives to apply their international recognition towards creating a united, peaceful world.

The artists will be performing in Wait Chapel this Thursday, March 4th from 7:30 to 9:30 pm as part of the Wake Forest University Secrest Artists Series. Senior Lecturer of Political Science Yomi Durotoye will speak at 6:40 to introduce the group. The show is $25 general admission and $15 for senior citizens.

Photo credit to group's website

By Abby Woodbury