Singing through the ages: how vocal groups harmonise history
Long before musical instruments graced the world, the human voice reigned supreme, weaving melodies and harmonies that resonated through the ages.
From the communal songs of our ancestors in prehistoric caves to contemporary vocal powerhouses, the enduring appeal of singing as a unified group reveals something fundamental to the human experience.
The evolution of vocal groups reflects not just the artistic expressions of their time but also the societal changes that shaped them.
In the Medieval and Renaissance eras, singing within sacred spaces defined the experience of music. By the 19th century, choirs were a staple of church gatherings, echoing through hallowed walls and binding communities with hymns and spirituals that spoke of hope and endurance.
The pulse of African-American music took shape against the backdrop of slavery, with spirituals and field songs emerging as symbols of resilience.
Enslaved Africans brought their multifaceted musical traditions to North America, employing techniques like “call and response” to create a communal vocal style that resonated deeply with the struggles of their daily lives.
One group that embodies this rich lineage is the Fisk Jubilee Singers, formed in 1871 at Fisk University in Nashville.
Their innovative performances brought essential African-American spirituals into the public eye, captivating audiences in both America and Europe and even performing for Queen Victoria in 1873.
Over 150 years later, this remarkable ensemble continues to be a beacon of cultural heritage.
As the gospel movement gained momentum in the late 19th century, the seeds sown by composers like Philip Bliss flourished.
The early 20th century ushered in a new era with the establishment of numerous gospel music publishing houses and the advent of radio, dramatically expanding the reach of this evocative form of vocal art.
Concurrently, barbershop quartets emerged, showcasing four-part harmony that carried a distinct charm, predominately featuring either all-male or all-female groups.
Personal stories of influence abound, such as that of my father, a choral singer, whose love for artists like The King's Messengers, founded by Billy Mahlalela in 1954, introduced me to the beauty of this tradition.
As technology evolved in the latter part of the 20th century, so did vocal music. The rise of performance sophistication and production values allowed vocal groups to captivate global audiences.
Today, genres like K-pop redefine the concept of vocal performance, seamlessly melding intricate choreography with vocal talent to enthral diverse audiences.
In South Africa, notable vocal ensembles arose during the 20th century, including the Skylarks, an all-female band founded by the legendary Miriam Makeba in the 1950s.
Furthermore, The Blue Notes emerged as one of the pioneering multiracial modern jazz outfits in Cape Town, pioneering a new sound in the vibrant musical landscape.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo represents a pinnacle of vocal achievement, founded by Joseph Shabalala in 1964.
The group has captivated audiences around the globe with its unique sound - a soulful fusion of traditional Zulu music and the intricate rhythms of isicathamiya.
In 1970, a turning point arrived when a radio broadcast led to their first recording contract, setting the stage for a remarkable musical journey. In 1973, the release of “Amabutho” marked a significant milestone as it became the first African album to earn gold record status.
However, it was their collaboration with American singer-songwriter Paul Simon on his groundbreaking album “Graceland” in 1986 that propelled them to new heights.
This partnership not only won Simon a Grammy but also introduced Ladysmith Black Mambazo to a global audience.
The success did not stop there. In 1987, the group further solidified their status in the music industry by winning a Grammy for their traditional folk album “Shaka Zulu”.
Despite the challenges the group faced over the years, including the retirement of Joseph Shabalala in 2014, the legacy of Ladysmith Black Mambazo perseveres.
Later., also came the Soweto Gospel Choir, a group born in 2002 with the mission to celebrate the unique power of African gospel music. This ensemble draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto, the famed township synonymous with the fight against apartheid.
Their performances are a harmonious blend of earthy rhythms and rich melodies, designed to uplift the soul and energise listeners.
The choir first gained international acclaim with a landmark performance at a concert for Nelson Mandela in 2003 and in 2018, they released the album “Freedom”, a heartfelt tribute to the leader on the centenary of his birth.
With each note, the choir embodies the joy of faith, showcasing the unifying strength of music in a world seeking solace.
Equally commendable is the Quava Vocal Group, which was founded in 2008 in Gauteng. Renowned for its innovative programming, the choir strikes a balance between traditional, and contemporary western choral pieces, jazz, and African music.
Their achievements are remarkable: in 2018 they shone at the World Choir Games, bringing home two gold medals in the jazz and mixed chamber categories.
Their stellar performance at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda in 2019 garnered a Standing Ovation Award, a testament to their commitment to quality and creativity in music.
Celebrating a decade of artistic growth, they captivated a sold-out audience in Johannesburg in 2019.
Completing this list of talents is the Ndlovu Youth Choir, which has been captivating hearts since its inception in 2009. Hailing from Limpopo, this choir is a living testament to the power of youthful expression through music.
Their ability to perform in all eleven of SA's languages and incorporate a plethora of genres - from inspirational gospel and tribal chants to contemporary Afro-pop and jazz - has led to a distinctive sound that resonates on the global stage.
The choir made headlines with their participation in the 14th season of ‘America’s Got Talent’, where they captured the audience's imagination with their rendition of “African Dream” and reached the finals, making history as the first choir to do so.
Their performances, filled with vibrant energy and emotional depth, leave an indelible mark on all who listen.
As we journey deeper into the heart of the 21st century, the evolution of vocal groups in South Africa appears unstoppable.
The myriad things Lutho Pasiya loves about these remarkable musical ensembles:
The sheer talent on display
Each vocalist brings their own unique skill set. In a world of synthetic sounds and auto-tuned vocals, the raw, untamed talent of a cappella performers shines especially bright.
The power of storytelling
At its core, acapella music is about storytelling. Groups often select songs that convey strong narratives or convey touching messages.
The joy of live performance
There’s an undeniable thrill in live acapella performances that electrifies both the singers and their audience. The spontaneity of live music, coupled with the joyous energy of the performers, creates an atmosphere that is vibrant and unforgettable.