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Lebo M pays tribute to Joseph Shabalala, praising influence of Ladysmith Black Mambazo on the world

Speaking at the funeral service of Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder, Joseph Shabalala, singer Lebo M touched on the impact that Shabalala's music had, not only on him but on many artists around the globe. 

Calling Shabalala a "true giant" and "an international icon", Lebo M said: "Long before some of us were born, [Joseph] laid a path for us to dream of success in many different ways. We're truly honoured that we stand on the shoulders of Giants. But some of us know from within the industry that we stand on the shoulders of an icon – a man who has turned Hollywood upside down, and the world over."

Renowned for his work on Disney's The Lion King, including the iconic song Circle of Life, Lebo said without the contributions of Ladysmith Black Mambazo to the industry, those songs would not have been possible. 

"There is, in the truest sense, no Lion King music, without the impact and influence of Ladysmith Black Mmanazo. From the moment some of us even had a sense of music, we heard everything, but it is the true, authentic nature and South Africaness of Ladysmith Black Mambazo's music that got us to realise the impact and therefore contribute globally also."

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