Amampondo

Amampondo is one of South Africa's leading ensembles. With their traditional garb and handmade instruments, the 11-piece group has transformed the traditional musical style of Xhosa into an international phenomena. One of Nelson Mandela's favorite bands, Amampondo has toured throughout the world and represented South Africa during the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games in Atlanta, GA in 1996. Assembled in 1979 by lead vocalist, percussionist and dancer Dizu Zingulu Plaatjies (b. February 5, 1957), Amampondo's name, which translates as "People of Mpondo," refers to the X...