Ladysmith Black Mambazo at Lied Center Jan. 31

            Just in time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Paul Simon's album, "Graceland," which launched South African act Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s career, this a cappella choir will perform at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Lied Center for Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 31.

            Winner of three Grammy Awards, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has collaborated with everyone from Dolly Parton to Michael Jackson, but may be best recognized as the powerful voices featured in Disney's "The Lion King."

            Performing for more than 40 years, Ladysmith Black Mambazo shares language, rhythm and story-telling with audiences like no other a cappella group. Described as "…one deep, rich, resonant and proud voice" by the New York Times, the group's versatility includes repertoire representing world music, folk, rock, country, classical and hip hop.

            Its latest album, "Songs from A Zulu Farm," was nominated for a 2011 Grammy Award for Best World Music Album. This album brings to life the songs and stories from the youth of Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder, Joseph Shabalala, and the other eight members of the group.

            Tickets to performance are priced at $25, $30 and $35, and may be purchased online at www.liedcenter.org, by calling 402-472-4747 or in person at the Lied Center Box Office, 301 N. 12th St.

            The Lied Center for Performing Arts is a state-of-the-art performing arts facility. Opened in 1990, it is Nebraska’s "Home for the Arts," offering major regional, national and international events designed to attract, entertain and inspire a statewide audience. The Lied Center and its programs are made possible through the generous 2011-12 season support of Christina Hixson and the Lied Foundation Trust, Friends of Lied, Ameritas and Union Bank.

Writer: Matthew Boring