The 5th Wedding Anniversary

On July 2nd, my wife and I celebrated our 5th Wedding Anniversary. It's hard to believe 5 years have already passed but it's been an enjoyable journey in life so far. To mark the occasion, we enjoyed a unifying music performance from Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

A few weeks back I heard that the group would be visiting Edmonton in support of their Grammy Award winning album Raise Your Spirit Higher [Wenyukela]. I've wanted to see them live for a while now, and the tour performance provided an excellent opportunity to listen to them in person. Since we couldn't be in Hawai'i, where we had our wedding and honeymoon, the Ladysmith Black Mambazo concert was a fitting way to celebrate our union and appreciation of global cultures. I had also wanted to take my grandmother as she really enjoys their soothing rhythms, but because of her age, she tires quickly and declined the invite.

My mother had secured 4 tickets earlier in the day that were nearly perfect. She had tried for a few days already to purchase tickets online but delayed in hopes of locating possibly closer seats. Even though Edmonton's Winspear Centre was designed so that every seat has an outstanding view and above-average sound reception, the ones we originally found in the Gallery section still weren't the best. After a few phone calls mom ended up with 4 amazing seats just released by the box office that afternoon. Row F (6) on the floor. Incredible.

Before the show, we stopped by a few of the Sir Winston Churchill Square food stalls to pick up a donair and some homemade french fries. We enjoyed the beautiful weather while we sat outside and ate our 'fine vendor cuisine.' Fully nourished, we headed inside the hall to enjoy the sold-out Mambazo performance. With nothing more than microphones and stage lighting, the musicians had the audience riveted to their enchanting music. At less than $40 (Canadian) per ticket, we definitely received our money's worth. Despite race, age, religion, or sexual preference, the audience was unified through the rhythms of Africa. An amazing feat and a true gift.

Most people will recognize Ladysmith Black Mambazo for their collaboration with Paul Simon on his Graceland album or the Life Savers candy commercials, but they've also provided music for The Lion King II, Coming to America, and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Notably, the South African Zulu music group has performed for numerous world leaders including Nobel Peace Prize Recipient, Mr. Nelson Mandela. For more on the group led by Mr. Joeseph Shabalala, check out their biography.

In summary, the evening was a simple, but memorable way to spend our 5th Anniversary together. Happy Anniversary to my supportive wife April and a big thank you to the family for the great gift!