Bulawayo group sings with Black Mambazo

BULAWAYO-based a cappella gospel music group, Impumelelo Shining Stars, have collaborated with South Africa's Ladysmith Black Mambazo on their latest album titled Amaqhinga Aphelile.

Impumelelo Shining Stars band leader Oscar Siziba told NewsDay in an interview that they have close links with popular Durban, South Africa-based Ladysmith Black Mambazo leader Joseph Shabalala.

They even recorded their album at United Rhythm Studio which is owned by Mtshengiseni Shabalala of Umaqondana fame. Mtshengiseni is younger brother to Joseph.

The album was produced by the Ladysmith Black Mambazo lead singer as well as Albert Mazibuko.

Siziba said they were humbled to work with a popular musician of Shabalala's calibre.

"It is so good working with Shabalala. He is a perfectionist. He even wrote and featured on the song titled Wobuyubuye," Siziba said.

The 14-track album is Impumelelo Shining Stars' seventh offering.

"We bring to people a message of peace, unity, love and respect," Siziba added.

Their sixth album, Streams Today, Rivers Tomorrow was released last year.

The group has performed extensively in the Southern African region. They have also performed in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Siziba said the album will be available in the country as well as in South Africa.