Hugh Masekela, the revered South African trumpeter and composer, is celebrated as "the father of South African jazz," seamlessly blending traditional sounds with innovative jazz. His powerful music and activism against apartheid resonated globally, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Hugh Ramapolo Masekela (4 April 1939 – 23 January 2018) was a celebrated South African trumpeter, flugelhornist, cornetist, singer, and composer, widely recognized as "the father of South African jazz." Over his prolific career spanning more than six decades, Masekela became an iconic figure in the music industry and a staunch opponent of apartheid, leaving an indelible mark both musically and socially.
Born near Johannesburg in 1939, Masekela was exposed to a rich tapestry of urban and traditional South African sounds that shaped his musical identity. His path was significantly influenced by Father Trevor Huddleston, an anti-apartheid activist, who facilitated opportunities for Masekela to gain musical training abroad, despite facing personal risks due to his activism.
In 1959, Masekela's trajectory shifted when he joined the pit orchestra for "King Kong," an "all-African jazz opera." The production's success was enormous, captivating multiracial audiences across South Africa, and later reaching London. This exposure was foundational in Masekela's burgeoning career.
A pivotal moment in Masekela's career was the formation of The Jazz Epistles in 1960 with Abdullah Ibrahim. As South Africa's pioneering bebop band, the ensemble boasted a remarkable lineup that included:
In his autobiography, "Still Grazing: The Musical Journey of Hugh Masekela," he recalled the band's influence, noting their ability to draw and energize audiences with their innovative arrangements and performances.
Facing the escalation of apartheid, Masekela found himself living in exile in the United States and Europe, where his music resonated globally. The international stage amplified his opposition to apartheid, exemplified by powerful compositions such as "Soweto Blues" and "Bring Him Back Home."
One of his landmark achievements on the international scene was "Grazing in the Grass," which topped US pop charts in 1968, affirming his crossover appeal and reinforcing his standing as a global artist.
Masekela's fusion of jazz with South African musical traditions created a unique sound that left a lasting influence on both local and international music landscapes. He is often celebrated for his role in shaping contemporary South African jazz and his broader musical contributions.
Upon his death in 2018, Masekela's legacy continued through his family, including his son Selema Masekela, his sister Barbara Masekela, and his nephew Earl Sweatshirt, all of whom are active in the arts.
