In 1986, Paul Simon’s Graceland introduced the world to the remarkably prolific and the culturally significant choral gift of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, originally formed by Joseph Shabalala in 1964 after he had a series of dreams in which he heard specific harmonies. Since its first incarnation, the band has endured tragedy, triumph, drastic shifts in the political landscape, Grammy Awards, and, above all, it has continued to spread the rich legacy of South African culture. With what can only be called an expansive anthology of work, the nine-piece will come together to deliver over 50 years of some of the most joyful damn music you’ve ever heard.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo will perform at The Ark on Tuesday, Feb. 27; Doors open at 7:30 p.m.; 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800; theark.org; Tickets are $45.
Get our top picks for the best events in Detroit every Thursday morning. Sign up for our events newsletter.
