Ladysmith Black Mambazo honour Oliver Tambo through music

Multi Grammy award winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo are collaborating with renowned artists to craft a song in honour of struggle hero Oliver Tambo. The dedication comes as President Jacob Zuma has declared 2017, the year of Oliver Tambo.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo are once again putting South Africa and its historical heritage, front and centre. And they’re being helped by some equally award winning artists; Grammy award winning jazz saxophonist and songwriter Kirk Whalum, Malian afro-pop singer Salif Keita and South African songstress Lira.

Manager of Ladysmith Black Mambazo Xolani Majozi says the collaboration become a reality when the group set out to embark on a project that would give something back to all South Africans. “They said South Africans have been carrying Ladysmith Black Mambazo on their shoulders for 57 years. It’s time to thank SA for the support. Ladysmith Black Mambazo was first popular at home before they become world icons. It’s not only giving salute to Oliver Tambo but giving salute to all the South Africans. He is one of the architects of our democracy.”

Oliver Tambo’s son, Dali Tambo says he is sure his late father is looking down on the unique collaboration and smiling, “They really are the Beetles of Africa, the rolling stones. These golden voices are perfectly matched to Oliver Tambo. As you know he was a choral conductor and a choir master. He was exact in it. He was a perfectionist. I think he would be totally delighted that a group that abide by the same musical discipline of excellence are coming together.”

The full version of “Long Live” is expected to be released in October.

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