Lebo M to Host Official Launch of Honouring Joseph Shabalala

Internationally acclaimed Lebo M, the Grammy Award-winning and Oscar-nominated composer behind Disney’s The Lion King, will host the official launch of Honouring Joseph Shabalala on Saturday, 20 September 2025. The event will take place at Nu Metro VIP Cinemas, Ballito Junction, in partnership with Ukhozi FM.

The launch will feature the world premiere of Nkosinathi Shabalala’s music video Imisebenzi, celebrating the legacy of Joseph Shabalala, founder of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Guests will be welcomed with drinks from 6:30 PM, and the program will begin at 7:15 PM. Lebo M presents the launch as a personal tribute to Shabalala, highlighting his enduring influence on South African music.

Joseph Shabalala transformed South African music, taking the isicathamiya sound from the streets of Ladysmith to international stages. He won multiple Grammy Awards and brought South African harmony to global audiences. Honouring Joseph Shabalala is a platform created by Lebo M to celebrate Shabalala’s impact, preserve African heritage, and promote music, storytelling, and live performance.

Following the launch, the Heritage Day Tribute Concert will take place on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, at the Durban Playhouse. The concert will feature performances by South Africa’s top artists, including Big Zulu, Khuzani, Blaq Diamond, Sjava, Boity Thulo, Mnqobi Yazo, Naima Kay, Thee Legacy, and Nkosinathi Shabalala. The event will be hosted by MC Minnie Dlamini.

Premiere of Nkosinathi Shabalala’s Imisebenzi
Date: Saturday, 20 September 2025
Venue: Nu Metro VIP Cinemas 1 & 2, Ballito Junction, KwaZulu-Natal
Time: Welcome drinks – 6:30 PM | Program – 7:15 PM
Presented by: Lebo M

The launch of Honouring Joseph Shabalala promises to be a memorable celebration of South Africa’s musical heritage and the enduring legacy of one of its greatest artists.