With his soaring trumpet and pioneering sound, Hugh Masekela captured the spirit and struggle of South Africa. Blending American jazz with African musical heritage, he created an iconic afro-jazz style that resonated worldwide.
Masekela began playing trumpet as a child after seeing Kirk Douglas’ character play one in Young Man With A Horn. He quickly mastered the instrument’s melodic capabilities and crisp tone. But it was after moving to America in his 20s that Masekela synthesized jazz and African music to craft his own creative voice.
Hits like “Grazing in the Grass” showcased his bubbly, joyful afro-jazz style. On funk-infused tracks like “Don’t Go Lose It Baby,” his fiery trumpet lines danced over thumping bass and sax. Yet Masekela also used his music to confront apartheid’s injustices in his beloved home country. His anthemic 1987 song “Bring Him Back Home” called for Nelson Mandela’s release from prison.
Masekela toured the world into his 70s, spanning genres from bebop to disco to blues. His legacy lives on through Afropop stars who build on traditions he pioneered. Few artists so stirringly channeled a nation’s soul through their music as the father of South African jazz.
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