Source: Todd Holmberg, 785-532-6425, trholm@k-state.edu
Web site: http://www.k-state.edu/mccain/
News release prepared by: Nellie Ryan, 785-532-6415, media@k-state.edu

Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010

AFRICAN GOSPEL GROUP LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO TO PERFORM AT K-STATE'S MCCAIN AUDITORIUM

MANHATTAN -- The Grammy-winning a cappella ensemble Ladysmith Black Mambazo will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, at Kansas State University's McCain Auditorium. The 10-member group is known worldwide for combining its native South African musical traditions with the sounds and sentiments of gospel music.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo represents the traditional culture of South Africa and is regarded as the country's cultural emissary at home and around the world. The group's sound comes from a traditional music called isicathamiya, which developed in the mines of South Africa where black workers were taken by rail to work far away from their homes and families. When the miners returned to the homes, this musical tradition returned with them.

First brought to fame through Paul Simon's "Graceland" album, the group gained further international popularity through its award-winning commercials for Life Savers and 7UP, the "Lion King II" soundtrack, and its many collaborations with such artists as Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart and Phil Collins.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo has performed for the Queen of England, Pope John Paul II, and at several prestigious events, including two Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies, South African presidential inaugurations and the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Tickets for Ladysmith Black Mambazo are on sale now. Prices start at $11 for K-State students and $22 for the general public. Discounts for K-State faculty, children and military also are available. Tickets can be purchased at the McCain Auditorium box office, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, or by calling 785-532-6428. More information is available online at http://www.k-state.edu/mccain/