Though not widely known outside of South Africa before Paul Simon's landmark 1986 album Graceland, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has since won three Grammy Awards and recorded with artists such as Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris. Founder Joseph Shabalala founded the group in the 1960s, based on dreams he had of perfect harmonies sung in the traditional South African Zulu a cappella style. Referred to by the late Nelson Mandela as South Africa's cultural ambassadors, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has performed throughout the world, including a visit to Norway with Mandela for his Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in 1993. On Jan. 26, the group will bring its message of peace and harmony to the Carpenter Theater at Richmond CenterStage. 7 p.m. $35 to $65. 514-3849 or richmondcenterstage.com .
