Photo via www.sowetogospelchoir.com

The arrival of heralded South African greats Ladysmith Black Mambazo to the Annenberg Center two weeks ago was certainly a cause for celebration. Their take on traditional vocal music forms and commitment to furthering the qualified optimism of the post-apartheid republic have earned them universal praise, dedication, and premiere collaborations with artists all over the world.

One way in which their legacy continues is in the popularization of South African choral music throughout the world. One of the acts who became famous in their wake, the Soweto Gospel Choir, sustains the momentum with their own Annenberg Center performance this Sunday. Originating from the Soweto area of Johannesburg, best known as the site of a 1976 uprising that bought the anti-apartheid struggle to even greater world attention, the 24-member choir has shared prestigious stages with artists as varied as Beyonce, U2, Robert Plant, and Peter Gabriel.

Taking the stage with their own JoBurg-specific blend of American spirituals, reggae, African gospel, and other music of the African diaspora, the Soweto Gospel Choir’s ecclesiastical power is to be experienced by everyone.

The Soweto Gospel Choir performs at the Annenberg Center this Sunday, February 16 at 7 PM. Click here for more info.