🌍 World Music — Zulu

Zulu music is notably known for isicathamiya, a male choral style developed among migrant worker communities and characterised by measured harmonies as well as discreet, synchronised dance steps. Ladysmith Black Mambazo greatly contributed to its international spread. Mbube is a related but generally more powerful vocal style, whose name comes from "Mbube", a song recorded by Solomon Linda and the Evening Birds in 1939, later adapted under the titles "Wimoweh" and "The Lion Sleeps Tonight". Maskandi, based notably on guitar, narrative singing and social commentary, represents another major form of modern Zulu music. Choirs, gospel, isicathamiya competitions and popular music today ensure the continuity and renewal of these traditions.