Final answer:
Ladysmith Black Mambazo gained worldwide recognition through their work on Paul Simon's Graceland album in 1986, which was instrumental in popularizing South African music globally.
Step-by-step explanation:
The famous South African musical group Ladysmith Black Mambazo rose to global attention in 1986 through their work on Paul Simon's Grammy-winning album Graceland. The album was a critical and commercial success and featured a blend of American and South African musical styles, despite the controversy surrounding its creation due to a United Nations boycott against South Africa during the apartheid era. The collaboration with Paul Simon played a significant role in elevating South African music, including the unique cultural expression of gumboot dancing, to the global stage.