Rest in Peace Hugh Masekela
Legendary jazz trumpeter Hugh Masekela, a leading figure in the struggle to end apartheid and “the father of South African jazz”, has died aged 78.
In a statement, his family said he had “passed peacefully” in Johannesburg “after a protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer”.
Masekela gained global recognition with his distinctive Afro-Jazz sound and hits such as Soweto Blues.
The 1977 song became synonymous with the anti-apartheid movement.
Born in the South African town of Witbank in 1939, Masekela was inspired to learn the trumpet after seeing Kirk Douglas play Bix Beiderbecke in the 1950 film Young Man with a Horn.
He persuaded one of his teachers – the anti-apartheid crusader Father Trevor Huddleston – to buy him an instrument, promising to stay out of trouble in return.
Masekela’s family described him as “a loving father, brother, grandfather and friend” who would be “forever in our hearts”.
“Hugh’s global and activist contribution to and participation in the areas of music, theatre and the arts in general is contained in the minds and memory of millions across six continents,” it continued.
“We are blessed and grateful to be part of a life and ever-expanding legacy of love, sharing and vanguard creativity that spans the time and space of six decades.”
Details of memorial and burial services, the family said, would be released “in due course”.
South African musician Loyiso Bala was among many to mark his death on Twitter.
Totally shattered to hear that Bra Hugh has passed. An absolute legend, mentor and the man who introduced my family to the music industry. Lala ngoxolo Bra #HughMasekela You will be sorely missed…
— Loyiso Bala (@loyisomusic) January 23, 2018
We’ve lost a true South African icon and legend. Thank you for sharing your beautiful soul and your beautiful music with us, Bra Hugh. You will me missed. #RIPhughmasekela pic.twitter.com/tOH3w5tfYX
— 5FM (@5FM) January 23, 2018
Another legend taken from us before he's time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the legendary singer and trumpeter Hugh Masekela, lala ngoxolo.#RIPHughMasekela 🎺 pic.twitter.com/VLLTIHLbQq
— Live Amp (@LiveAmp) January 23, 2018
Sad news. RIP Bra Hugh Masekela… pic.twitter.com/D9220e0KzV
— #ERAbyDJZinhle #ZeeNation (@DJZinhle) January 23, 2018
