Exit Hugh Masekela

Hugh Masekela

The legendary South African jazz musician died, aged 78, after a long battle with prostate cancer


The ruling African National Congress has praised the father of South African jazz’s contribution to the struggle against oppressive white-minority rule.  His compositions were largely about the struggle for majority rule and full democratic rights in South Africa.

Masekela went into exile in England and the United States in the 1960s where he collaborated with the American jazz star Harry Belafonte.

He rose to international fame for songs includingGrazing in the Grass and Bring Him Back Home, calling for the release of Nelson Mandela.

The ANC said in a statement, “Bra Hugh was a towering figure, both at home and around the world, an ardent advocate for freedom and a rebelliously defiant voice against oppression and injustice.”

“We send condolences to the Masekela family and the creative industry. We extend our sympathies to the people of South Africa on the loss of so legendary an icon. Indeed, a baobab tree has fallen. May his soul rest in peace.”

His family said in a statement that ''his memory would live on in the minds and memories of millions across six continents.”