South African legendary jazz trumpeter Bra Hugh Masekela dies aged 78.
The BBC quotes a statement from his family stating that the revered musician ‘passed peacefully’ in Johannesburg, ‘after a protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer”
Masekela who was also a leading figure in the fight against apartheid was born in KwaGuqa Township in Witbank, 1939 and was once married to the late queen of African music Miriam Makeba. The singer widely considered as the father of South African jazz began playing the horns in his childhood years, the very instrument that made him a household name, a career spanning more than five decades.
The singer underwent eye surgery in 2016. and later in October it was revealed that that he was battling cancer since 2008.
South African president Jacob Zuma while paying tribute to Bra, said he was one of the country’s most recognizable signature talents. “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.” he posed.
Bra Hugh music was inspired by anti-apartheid struggle, work portrayed struggles, success and passion of South Africans.In the recent time he headlined a campaign to encourage men to get tested for prostrate cancer.
He is surved by son Sal and daughter Pula Twala.
|Afroway
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