South African Film Festival | Music is My Life

90 mins | arts, doco | all ages
Music is my Life is a compelling documentary about the incomparable Joseph Shabalala, founder of the wildly popular a-cappella singing and dance troupe, Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The music, which has won multiple international awards, draws heavily on Zulu harmonies (isicathamiya and mbube) resonant of Shabalala’s traditional roots. The film charts Shabalala’s rise from humble farm origins to international stardom following his collaboration with Paul Simon on the Graceland album. Shabalala’s art was totally bound up with his life; his visions and dreams deeply influenced his work. Later on his deep spirituality found expression in religious music. This is an uplifting film about a South African icon of extraordinary talent and charisma.

Proceeds support Education Without Borders.

Director
Phumelelo Mbele

Producer
Carolyn Carewe

Executive Producer
Judi Nwokei, Thoko Shabalala

Cast
Dolly Parton, Paul Simon