LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO - Shaka Zulu (1988)

Warner Bros / Gallo GRC,    HUL 40157   
Producer: Paul Simon   
Engineer: Roy Halee   
Composer: Joseph Tshabalala

South Africa's greatest musical export, LBM first travelled to Germany in the early 80s. Shortly after appearing on the influential Indestructible Beat of Soweto compilation in 1985 they helped Paul Simon make Graceland the following year. Simon returned the favour, producing their next three albums and ensuring international stardom.

Shaka Zulu was the first of these and earned the group a Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Recording. Besides his name, it's doubtful Mr Simon could've offered much to the the smooth acapella grooves of LBM's brand of isicathimiya. Featuring classics like 'Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain', 'How Long?' and 'Hello My Baby'.