The cover art for "Amabutho" an album by the South African Isicathamiya group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Amabutho

Amabuto is the first and a 12-track album by the South African choral group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The song reflects on the strength of the Zulu warriors and their bravery and courage in battle, and is sung in the traditional Zulu Isicathamiya style.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a male choral group in South Africa, led by Joseph Shabalala, who performs traditional isicathamiya and mbube music.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a renowned South African male choral group that was founded in the 1960s by Joseph Shabalala.  The group changed its name from Mshengu White Mambazo to Ladysmith Black Mambazo in 2000. Their unique vocal harmonies, traditional Zulu rhythms, and a cappella singing style have garnered international recognition, particularly after their collaboration with Paul Simon on his album "Graceland" in the 1980s.

The group has released over 50 albums and has won multiple Grammy Awards. They use their music to promote messages of peace, love, and understanding, and have been appointed as goodwill ambassadors for their country. Their music has also been featured in several films, including "The Lion King." Despite changes in membership over the years, Ladysmith Black Mambazo continues to perform and record new music.