Johannesburg, South Africa – 5 August 2025 – Grammy Award-winning group Ladysmith Black Mambazo is proud to announce the release of their latest single, You Make Me Happy — an extraordinary musical collaboration with celebrated jazz pianist and spiritual leader Nduduzo Makhathini, and renowned vocalist and cultural scholar Mbuso Khoza.
Bringing together three of South Africa’s most iconic voices, You Make Me Happy is a soul-stirring composition rooted in spirituality, heritage, and emotional healing. The track transcends genres to create a rich and resonant sonic journey, honouring traditional isicathamiya, spiritual jazz, and indigenous vocal expression.
More than a song, You Make Me Happy is a cultural statement — a call for restoration and a celebration of the enduring power of music to uplift, unify, and inspire. The single reflects a deep reverence for African identity and musical storytelling, weaving together the sacred and the contemporary with authenticity and grace.
Speaking on the collaboration, the artists emphasised the spiritual synergy that shaped the project. “This song is about joy, but also about remembrance,” said Makhathini. “It reminds us of what we’ve inherited and how we carry that light forward.” Mbuso Khoza added, “It’s a song of gratitude. It acknowledges the unseen work of the soul.”
To commemorate the release, a Media briefing will take place on Friday, 8 August 2025 in Johannesburg. This exclusive event will offer industry insiders, broadcasters, and cultural stakeholders a first listen of the track, along with a chance to engage directly with the creative team behind the work.
You Make Me Happy is now available on all major digital platforms. Listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in this momentous release — a shining example of what happens when musical excellence meets cultural consciousness.