Ladysmith Black Mambazo have joined forces with Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza in a major new release that brings together distinct South African sounds under one vision.
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“Our latest album, ‘One Voice One World’, exemplifies this balance. It features collaborations with artists from diverse musical traditions, blending different sounds and cultural experiences into a unified expression.”
“The inspiration behind bringing these styles together was to celebrate the universality of music as a language that transcends borders, encouraging cultural dialogue and mutual respect,” said Sibongiseni Shabalala.
The project brings together leading South African voices, including Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza, in a collaboration that bridges tradition and contemporary sound.
Known for their signature isicathamiya style, the group continues to expand its musical reach. On this album, their layered harmonies meet elements of jazz and modern African composition.
The result is a body of work that reflects both continuity and change, staying grounded in heritage while opening space for new interpretation.
“‘One Voice One World’ reflects Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s ongoing commitment to artistic excellence and cultural exchange. It serves as a platform where voices from various backgrounds merge harmoniously, reinforcing the message of unity in diversity,” Shabalala added.
The release follows the success of their single “You Make Me Happy", a track that resonated with audiences for its focus on love and human connection.
The song set the tone for the album’s broader themes, which centre on unity, peace and shared experience.
The album also arrives in a period of reflection for the group. In February, they commemorated the life and legacy of their founder, Joseph Shabalala.
His influence continues to shape the group’s identity, from their vocal arrangements to their commitment to carrying South African music onto the global stage.
“Listeners can expect a rich tapestry of sounds from traditional isicathamiya harmonies to contemporary global rhythms, exploring themes of hope, peace and shared humanity."
"Over the years, our sound has evolved by embracing new influences and adapting to changing musical landscapes, yet it remains deeply rooted in the traditional techniques and spiritual essence that Dr Shabalala instilled in us,” Shabalala said.
At the same time, the group is marking its 65th anniversary with an international tour running until this month, including performances across South Africa in cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
The moment is also marked by loss. On Easter Sunday, the group lost longtime member Albert Mazibuko. A key figure in their history, he joined in 1969 and remained part of the ensemble until his retirement in 2025.
His contribution extended to global milestones, including work on “Graceland” by Paul Simon, which introduced the group to wider audiences.