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Ladysmith Black Mambazo — Abantwana Basethempeleni
Album: South African Legends
Avg rating:
6.4

Your rating:
Total ratings: 728








Released: 2000
Length: 5:47
Plays (last 30 days): 0
(no lyrics available)
Comments (182)add comment
 bindi wrote:

does this song ever end?


Well it does, it lasts a very short 5:47 min.
To me they could sing their songs all day long and I wouldn't tire of them.
 Zoonhollis wrote:


I know this is 11 years old, but...

I don't care for this song either, but instead of whining like a little bitch, I've learned to use PSD.



Thank You!!   
 rklein wrote:

This is gold!


Yes...  8 --> 9.
This is gold!
 CaptTofu wrote:

This is torture. But you better not say anything, the PC police will call you an asshole.



I know this is 11 years old, but...

I don't care for this song either, but instead of whining like a little bitch, I've learned to use PSD.
Joseph Shabalala died earlier this year...... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...


Used to live in Tampa, and season passes to Busch Gardens gave us lots of opportunity to hear their African-styled bands and singers.  Got addicted to the funky syncopation with heavy bass vocals. 
Stop it......
 ziggytrix wrote:

yep

and the most awesome lifesavers commercial ever!
 
Once I realized this was the lifesavers commercial song people, I loved it even more.  That commercial actually made me like lifesavers more.  

 
Also, you people saying it's too repetitive aren't listening very well.  There are a few different verses that each include a number of repetitions, but no real chorus that I can tell at all.

So, did they use this same melody before Paul found them, or do they owe him some serious royalties for this one?

i keep hearing something that sounds like "cinnamon" and then i wonder "what ever happened to cinnamon life savers"
urgh, agreed. not a fan.
These guys are really great in concert. The experience is very different than just listening to a recording.
Not a fan.
This never seems to end... pfff
FFFUUUU!!!!11
 jools wrote:

Quite

I'm sure that Dutch would sound like mindless drivel to native south african speakers. 
 

Curious choice of verb tense.
 rdo wrote:

I started out liking this, then I about lost my dinner after the 500th iteration of the harmony.


 

I agree, too repetitive.
Black Mambazo will always remind me of home and my childhood. My parents would put it on during parties and we'd sporadically dance to it when walking through the living room.

I started out liking this, then I about lost my dinner after the 500th iteration of the harmony.


 AndyFarang wrote:
One wonders if this would have so much airplay if the singers were from a different race....?

Wake me up when its stopped. Cheers.
 
I probably wouldn't care for a bunch of Norwegians singing isicathamiya styled hymns, but I guess I'm just a bigot, eh?

 Stefen wrote:
Was this the group with Paul
 
yep

and the most awesome lifesavers commercial ever!

Was this the group with Paul
Oh come on.  I have heard more annoying songs on RP, but there is nothing likable or interesting about this song.  Lets keep it real.
 j2e1n9 wrote:
Ladysmith Black Mambazo? Like, from Mean Girls? LMAO! Had no idea that was a real band.
 
Haha! Great comment.

Song is bad btw.

make it stop!


 CaptTofu wrote:
This is torture. But you better not say anything, the PC police will call you an asshole.
 
You asked for it - ASSHOLE
 j2e1n9 wrote:
Ladysmith Black Mambazo? Like, from Mean Girls? LMAO! Had no idea that was a real band.
 
Oh dear.  Please read some history about the South African struggle to throw off Apartheid. And listen to some old Paul Simon cds.
This is torture. But you better not say anything, the PC police will call you an asshole.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo? Like, from Mean Girls? LMAO! Had no idea that was a real band.
 cattail321 wrote:
.....and how many CD's do you have out asshole??{#Clap} Hippostar wrote:

Well put.

 
 

Well that was a little excessive.  Get defensive much?

.....and how many CD's do you have out asshole??{#Clap} Hippostar wrote:

Well put.

 


 bindi wrote:
does this song ever end?
 
I don't see land yet. I think I'm getting scurvy.

does this song ever end?
 AndyFarang wrote:
One wonders if this would have so much airplay if the singers were from a different race....?

Wake me up when its stopped. Cheers.
 
I look forward to you waking up.

One wonders if this would have so much airplay if the singers were from a different race....?

Wake me up when its stopped. Cheers.
Very long. 

Very, very long.
This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive. This song is so repetitive.
 Rotterdam wrote:


Sorry for you that you feel this way. I think this is heavenly, wonderful music.
 
Quite

I'm sure that Dutch would sound like mindless drivel to native south african speakers. 
 mamerjamer wrote:
There is a Paul Simon song that has some of this same kind of African harmony in it, and I find that one very enjoyable.  But this song is a heart attack inducer.  If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.  In other words, YUCK!!  I can't stand this freakin' worthless drivel!

 

Sorry for you that you feel this way. I think this is heavenly, wonderful music.
 lmic wrote:
Ironically, now that Paul Simon has opened my mind to these rhythms, I would way rather hear the originals than Graceland. (Thanks and also sorry, Paul :)
 
i wonder how many westerners would have any idea who these guys were without the Graceland album?

agree with your sentiment too.  LBMs work seems a lot more timeless to me.

Much love. Also lovely is Black Umfolosi - they're amazing.
This is a first time I heard a song about a 60's - 70's motocross bike from Czechoslovakia. {#Mrgreen}
https://www.vintagebike.co.uk/Bike%20Directories/CZ%20Bikes/CZ%20Index.htm
It's the best one I've heard.

Ironically, now that Paul Simon has opened my mind to these rhythms, I would way rather hear the originals than Graceland. (Thanks and also sorry, Paul :)
 mamerjamer wrote:
If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.

  Please do so. Yet another example of why stupid people should not be allowed to breed.


BRUTAL
Please make it stop :(
 mamerjamer wrote:
There is a Paul Simon song that has some of this same kind of African harmony in it, and I find that one very enjoyable.  But this song is a heart attack inducer.  If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.  In other words, YUCK!!  I can't stand this freakin' worthless drivel!

 
I thought this was "Homeless" by Paul Simon with Ladysmith. I still kind of wish it was that song, but I like their sound.

I'm surprised by the negative comments.  I like it; it's different to my Western ears.
 mamerjamer wrote:
There is a Paul Simon song that has some of this same kind of African harmony in it, and I find that one very enjoyable.  But this song is a heart attack inducer.  If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.  In other words, YUCK!!  I can't stand this freakin' worthless drivel!

 
Use MUTE instead. It's less messy and you won't leave a hole in the social fabric. {#Sunny}
 mamerjamer wrote:
There is a Paul Simon song that has some of this same kind of African harmony in it, and I find that one very enjoyable.  But this song is a heart attack inducer.  If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.  In other words, YUCK!!  I can't stand this freakin' worthless drivel!

 
Then defenestration becomes you...

Funny, as this is the exact same group (Ladyblacksmith) that Paul used. Ah well...

 mamerjamer wrote:
There is a Paul Simon song that has some of this same kind of African harmony in it, and I find that one very enjoyable.  But this song is a heart attack inducer.  If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.  In other words, YUCK!!  I can't stand this freakin' worthless drivel!

 


There is a Paul Simon song that has some of this same kind of African harmony in it, and I find that one very enjoyable.  But this song is a heart attack inducer.  If there was a window in my room, I would jump out of it.  In other words, YUCK!!  I can't stand this freakin' worthless drivel!

PLEASE MAKE IT STOP!!!{#Frustrated}
 bindi wrote:
It's funny how there are some artists who's songs all sound pretty much the same, but none compare to this group.
 
I guess if their instruments are just the human voice, and they are singing in a different language to yours, and in a traditional style, I guess that might appear to be the case.  Same could be said of most Bluegrass heard by Zulus I expect.

It's funny how there are some artists who's songs all sound pretty much the same, but none compare to this group.
Everything they do sounds remarkably the same. I appreciate the harmonies, but c'mon, some variation please!
thank you thank you thank you


 

!amazing!  

** 9 **


that makes two of us, and awkward i would add: disney movie as a  point of reference? one of us is out of this world
Danimal174 wrote:
Boy, I'm suddenly feeling old. I like this song quite a bit, as well.



incredibly uplifting!
I was beginning to think that MusicMonkey was stuck in a loop, again. Agreed, too repetitive for me.
FANTASTIC! If I can visit one place before I die, it will be Africa!
Ouch! This music is too repetitive for me. Really annoying.
Graceland anyone? A great album for its time, which still, oddly, holds up. I like this.
I'd rather stick needles in my eye!
TheFriendlyCat wrote:
I love this kind of music!!! probably because Lion King was my favorite movie as a child, and some of its music is very reminiscent of this style. Plus, the vocals are just wonderful.
Boy, I'm suddenly feeling old. I like this song quite a bit, as well.
Stop this!
It do go on a bit.
mirland wrote:
Make it stop!
You stop!
Make it stop!
I lived in Africa in the 70's. One night a family group of about 20 or so stopped at our house to give an impromptu concert, to raise money for their trip up country. It was mesmerizing. To hear it live and spontaneous. Whenever I hear LBM, I remember that night.
MrGreg wrote:
It's like a million dull knives sawing at my eardrums.
I'm impressed by your use of metaphor, but I don't feel the same way. It's a bit repetitive, but I like the feeling in this song.
It's like a million dull knives sawing at my eardrums.
Saw them here in Omaha last Friday. AMAZING! Didn't realize they have been around since the early '60s. Each singer has his own unique look/style (even though they wore matching outfits) - something I didn't expect as well from the music. A lot of fun! :-D Four of the members are sons of the director/founder/lead-singer, Dr. Shabalala.
I love this kind of music!!! probably because Lion King was my favorite movie as a child, and some of its music is very reminiscent of this style. Plus, the vocals are just wonderful.
Can't.... take it... anymore. Must... kill Roku.
Someafrican warmth in my cold winter day. THX, Bill!
in case you need to understand the lyrics to appreciate the music: https://members.tripod.com/cosealtromondo/mo_vida2.htm#track10 "One of the most beloved South African groups of all time, Ladysmith Black Mambazo was propelled to international stardom in 1988 through their appearance on Paul Simon's Grammy-winning Graceland album. Their beautiful Zulu choral music, engaging performances, and the endearing personality of leader Joseph Shabalala have kept Ladysmith at the forefront of the world music scene ever since. They have gone on to record with a wide range of popular artists from Dolly Parton to Lou Rawls to Andreas Vollenweider and continue to produce internationally successful solo recordings. The a Capella style performed by Ladysmith is called iscathamiya, a Zulu word meaning "to walk softly." Its roots can be traced to the 1920s, when workers from Natal's mines and factories began weekend singing and dance competitions between the all-male hostels where most of the workers lived. The popularity of these competitions spread to Zulu workers in other regions and became an important setting for the development of choral music. The commercial popularity of this music rose and fell over the years, but it was always maintained in the worker hostels. "Ladysmith" refers to the hometown of the group's founder and leader, Joseph Shabalala. "Black Mambazo" means "black axe" in Zulu and symbolizes their ability to chop down their competition. Their debut recording in 1973 became the first gold record in South Africa with over 25,000 units sold. Their success led to a boom in Zulu a Capella that lasted until the early 1980s when the group's mainstream popularity began to decline. Their work with Paul Simon gave new life to their career, and they have soared to ever-greater heights. "Abantwana Basethempeleni (Children of the Temple)" describes the natural spirituality of children. "There are small, God-fearing children living in the temple. They have no sorrows, they are protected by the Lord and are sending their message to everyone to put their trust in God."
handyrae wrote:
Good Lord! Imagine being stuck forever on the It's a Small World ride at Disney World. That would be Hell.
If this is the soundtrack in hell, the residents of the hot place will be fortunate. How many ways could it be worse? A continuous loop of Vanilla Ice comes to mind...
Awesome to hear you play this.
Good echo!#3.
CUT!
go see them live and your appreciation will increase 10 fold......................
...
dctrpunda wrote:
It's like I'm stuck on a ride at Disneyland, but the music keeps playing I believe that this a level of hell.
Good Lord! Imagine being stuck forever on the It's a Small World ride at Disney World. That would be Hell.
like wasabi; excellent in small quantities but a little bit goes a long way.
roseap wrote:
I keep waiting for the "Diamonds on the soles of her shoes" bit, but it doesn't come... Sounds like the same harmonies... Still like it though!
It is the same. I think Simon arranged his music to this song. I don't know what they are saying, but they are singing the same words as in the Simon song.
Chumbawamba-1984 wrote:
What repetition? If you were able to understand the lyrics, you would be able to follow them and understand it as a whole. If you did not understand English, you would feel the CCR (for example) songs as never ending loops of the same arrangement. Don't you think so ?
Can you understand the lyrics? Try and enlighten us. Your whole argument in this case is hinging on it. If you are stating that the words are important yet you don't know what they mean your point is useless. To me it is too much repetition and I was falling asleep. I generally like this type of music when it is played on RP. Just this one goes on too much for my tastes. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but you seem to know what the lyrics mean so do please tell us. And finally some CCR songs drone on forever and are shit even if I do understand the lyrics.
Chumbawamba-1984 wrote:
What repetition? If you were able to understand the lyrics, you would be able to follow them and understand it as a whole. If you did not understand English, you would feel the CCR (for example) songs as never ending loops of the same arrangement. Don't you think so ?
Nice explanation. ontopic: This is basic music and therefore kind of special. One loves or hates it... For me it's an 8.
Gaylord_Meatface wrote:
Anyone else feeling like they are being brainwashed through repetition?
What repetition? If you were able to understand the lyrics, you would be able to follow them and understand it as a whole. If you did not understand English, you would feel the CCR (for example) songs as never ending loops of the same arrangement. Don't you think so ?
pannaramma wrote:
This is so pure. Humans making music with voices.
You need to listen to some "Tuvan throat music". Talk about humans making music with their voices. Can you dust off that Ondar CD, Bill? Ed: I am soo tired of this sound (LBM)
roseap wrote:
I keep waiting for the "Diamonds on the soles of her shoes"...Sounds like the same harmonies...
Very much so, and agreed, still good.
pannaramma wrote:
This is so pure. Humans making music with voices.
I'm sure we could find a capella arrangements of pop and rock songs that RP already plays.
It's like I'm stuck on a ride at Disneyland, but the music keeps playing I believe that this a level of hell.
enough already!
Lion King?
ScottFromWyoming wrote:
Not a fan? 8. Just for you haters I think Bill should play a whole set of LBM, Orchestra Baobab, Cesaria Evora et al...
We agree on some things, then, Scott.
This is so pure. Humans making music.
I keep waiting for the "Diamonds on the soles of her shoes" bit, but it doesn't come... Sounds like the same harmonies... Still like it though!
mcoderre wrote:
Whats wrong? It's horrible! I't the most unbarable song EVER. I'd rather listen to Britney Spears than this... and that's saying a lot... sorry.
Well if you'd rather listen to Spears, then what are you doing here on RP? Give this a listen and hear the harmonies...if that doesn't get you then I'm sorry you're musical appreciation is so limited.
isujimmy78 wrote:
This is fantastic!
... i'll be honest, i haven't heard a 'bad' putumayo world music recordin' yet, 's all good mate!
If you don't "hear" the toe tapping in the back, you must be a Phil Collins fan !! Maybe too much addiction to the school band drums. As for me I love both this music and PC's.
This is fantastic!
madaxeman wrote:
What's wrong with you people.This is MUSIC.The albums are fantastic too.
Whats wrong? It's horrible! I't the most unbarable song EVER. I'd rather listen to Britney Spears than this... and that's saying a lot... sorry.
shutter wrote:
Yechhhh. Just doesn't translate to anything toe-tappable.
I understand what you mean, since I love dance music. But not everything has to be dance music to be good. I think these harmonies are lovely, and like other posters, I don't have to understand the words to like it. I think it's beautiful.
Alpine wrote:
MAKE IT STOP!
Alpine wrote:
Thank God that crap is over!
Not a fan? 8. Just for you haters I think Bill should play a whole set of LBM, Orchestra Baobab, Cesaria Evora et al...
Shut it off!! SHUT IT OFF NOW!!!!! Can't ... stand ... this ... noise..... aaarggggggggggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!!!
What's wrong with you people?This is MUSIC.The albums are fantastic too.
Yechhhh. Just doesn't translate to anything toe-tappable.
Better in outer space (as mocked on SNL)
MAKE IT STOP!
omniphiliac wrote:
Just have to offer a balance to the puke people down below me here: I rather like it. I like not having to understand the words. It makes it easier music to work to since I'm not lost contemplating deep messages. (Not that there aren't deep messages...just that I need not know what they are.)
definitely
Sorry.... Not doing it for me...
Harlan879 wrote:
They're singing in Zulu (S. Africa), not Swahili (Kenya, I think). The title means (thank you Google) "Children of the Temple".
hehe, at first I thought you were saying the title was "thank you Google" :)
Polyrhythmic goodness! I love how layered and complex their harmony is.
Harlan879 wrote:
They're singing in Zulu (S. Africa), not Swahili (Kenya, I think). The title means (thank you Google) "Children of the Temple".
Yup, although both isiZulu and Kiswahili (the names of the language in their respective languages) are both in the Bantu language family.
Just have to offer a balance to the puke people down below me here: I rather like it. I like not having to understand the words. It makes it easier music to work to since I'm not lost contemplating deep messages. (Not that there aren't deep messages...just that I need not know what they are.)