FIVE-TIME Grammy-winning isicathamiya group Ladysmith Black Mambazo welcomes fresh talent.

Celebrating 65 years in the music industry, the group has added two new young members Babuyile (39) and Gagamile Shabalala (37) to help maintain its original sound and for future generations.

Both are related to the late founder Joseph Shabalala, who passed away in 2020.

The world-renowned group, founded in 1960, has only one original member left, Albert Mazibuko (76). Due to age, he won’t be part of the group’s upcoming international tours.

Black Mambazo, from uMnambithi, KZN, also known as Amambazo Amnyama, kicks off its US-Canada tour from 14 February to 6 April.

Group manager Xolani Majozi told Daily Sun it was the late Joseph’s dream to keep Amambazo’s original sound by integrating new members.

“With Mazibuko getting older, we added new members while he’s still here. He won’t join the US and Canada tour but will be part of the Mexico tour in May.”

Xolani said the aim is to keep its original sound through mentorship.

“Thirty years ago, Joseph introduced his sons, Sibongiseni, Thulani, and Thami Shabalala, to preserve the group’s sound while retiring members were still active. We’ve introduced these two to do the same and prepare them for international tours.”