Hugh Ramopolo Masekela, South Africa’s trumpeter, flugelhornist, cornetist, composer and singer has passed away after a long battle with prostate cancer at the age of 78.
He was considered the “father of South African jazz.”
In a statement, South African President Jacob Zuma said Masekela’s death was “an immeasurable loss to the music industry and to the country at large”.
President Zuma bestowed the National Order of Ikhamanga in Gold in 2010 to Mr Masekela for his exceptional contribution to music and the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
“The nation mourns one its most recognizable signature talent in the person of Bra Hugh Masekela. It is an immeasurable loss to the music industry and to the country at large. His contribution to the struggle for liberation will never be forgotten. We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to his family and peers in the arts and culture fraternity at large. May his soul rest in peace,” said President Zuma.
President Uhuru Kenyatta said, “The World has today lost a Legend. Hugh Masekela, gave us many songs, a reason to dance to Jazz, and combined that with a trumpet, not only to connect us to entertainment, but also to give South Africa, a liberating and powerful voice against Apartheid.” Read
Heartbroken We have lost our Iconic #JazzLegend & Brother Musician, an inspiration #RIPHughMasekela Your music will live forever! Our deepest sympathy & condolences to the Masekela's family@ChampionSAfrica @NathiMthethwaSA @Feliciamabuza @ChangeAgentSA @AshrafGarda pic.twitter.com/0EdMnsWSnR
— Yvonne Chaka Chaka (@YvonneChakaX2) January 23, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Bra Hugh Masekela. As the father of South African Jazz, we continue to celebrate your legendary music. Thank you for being so very special and for being a part of #SafaricomJazz. pic.twitter.com/1uiLgq2eUf
— Safaricom Limited (@SafaricomLtd) January 23, 2018
Hugh Masekela was a titan of jazz and of the anti-apartheid struggle. His courage, words and music inspired me, were heard across the world and strengthened the resolve of those fighting for justice in South Africa.
— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) January 23, 2018
In 1954 Father Trevor Huddleston gave Bra Hugh Masekela his first trumpet from Louis Armstrong & asked Uncle Sauda to teach him basics, the rest became a colourful history…
A legend through and through…#HughMasekela pic.twitter.com/cLL94Pov7r
— Mathetha Mokonyama (@MathethaM) January 23, 2018