Contact: Sammy McDavid
STARKVILLE, Miss.--The 10-member South African vocal ensemble first known to many Americans for their collaboration with musical superstar Paul Simon will perform Feb. 12 at Mississippi State.
Grammy Award-nominated Ladysmith Black Mambazo, whose melodies combine Zulu harmonies with Christian gospel songs, will launch the first program of the university's 2008 Lyceum Series.
The public concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in Lee Hall auditorium. Available at the door, tickets are $15 for adults; $10 for senior citizens, by request; and $8 for children ages 3-12. Advance tickets may be purchased at www.ticketweb.com.
MSU students will be admitted free with valid identification cards.
Formed in 1964, Mambazo was introduced to the United States when their distinct vocals were heard on Simon's 1986 blockbuster release, "Graceland." The group's traditional style, known as Isicathamiya, was created by generations of South Africans working under harsh conditions in the country's diamond and gold mines.
Also multiple Tony Award nominees, the vocal artists have shared their cultural style in releases by other musicians ranging from Stevie Wonder to George Clinton.
Mambazo has recorded more than 40 albums and sold more than six million copies.
For more on the 2007-08 Lyceum Series, telephone 662-325-4201 or visit www.msstate.edu/dept/lyceum. The group's Web site is www.mambazo.com.
For more information about Mississippi State University, see http://www.msstate.edu/.