South Africa’s parliament also issued a statement paying tribute to the music legend.
Shabalala’s death comes on the 30th anniversary of the prison release of the late anti-apartheid hero, Nelson Mandela, who was a fan of the group.
Mandela once described the musical group as “South Africa’s cultural ambassador.”
“Our thoughts are with Mr Shabalala’s wife, family and friends at this sad time.”
Joseph Shabalala created the all-male acapella music group in the 1960s. He did this in the hopes of using music as a vehicle to unite South Africans during the apartheid.
The soulful Choral group gained international prominence after working with American singer and songwriter, Paul Simon.
Over the years, they have wowed fans around the world with their harmonious singing in the traditional Zulu performance style known as isicathamiya.
The South African government also tweeted a condolence message on his passing on Tuesday.
“We would like to extend our condolences on the passing of Joseph Shabalala, who was the founder of the group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Ulale ngoxolo Tata ugqatso lwakho ulufezile. #RIPJosephShabalala,”
Source: CNN Africa