RELEASED: March 31, 2005

DANVILLE, KY—For more than 30 years, the vocal ensemble Ladysmith Black Mambazo has married the intricate rhythms and harmonies of its members' native South African musical traditions to the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music. The result is a musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched audiences worldwide.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo's 10-vocalist ensemble were already stars in their own land when they were brought to international fame by their appearance with Paul Simon on his "Graceland" album.

"It isn't merely the grace and power of their dancing or the beauty of their singing that rivets the attention," Simon said, "but the sheer joy and love that emanates from their being."

Since then they have appeared on television programs and on Broadway. Their music can be heard in numerous films, including Disney's The Lion King.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo represents the traditional culture of South Africa. They are regarded as South Africa's cultural emissaries at home and around the world.

Ladysmith's performance is scheduled Tuesday, April 5 at 8 p.m. at Centre's Norton Center for the Arts.

The College's Norton Center for the Arts is an internationally acclaimed performing arts center that annually brings to campus a series of musical groups, Broadway shows, individual performances and other works from the performing arts. A complete series schedule and subscription information are available upon request. You can also learn more by visiting http://www.centre.edu/nc/currentseason.html.

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Founded in 1819, Centre College is ranked among the U.S. News top 50 national liberal arts colleges. Centre alumni, known for their nation-leading loyalty in annual financial support, include two U.S. vice presidents and two Supreme Court justices. For more, visit http://www.centre.edu/web/elevatorspeech/

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