AllMovie

Ladysmith Black Mambazo was already one of the most popular and acclaimed vocal ensembles in their native South Africa before Paul Simon invited them to perform on his 1986 album Graceland, which helped to make the group international stars. Led by Joseph Shabalala, the group features two tenors, an alto, and seven bass voices, bringing a unique and powerful sound to their songs, which are often inspired by traditional Zulu melodies. Ladysmith Black Mambazo has survived political strife, racial hostility, and personal tragedy in South Africa to become one of the leading groups in world music, and this documentary offers a close look at the group on stage, while also exploring their tumultuous life and times. On Tiptoe: The Music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo premiered at the 2000 Seattle Film Festival.