Hugh Masekela

Date of Birth: April 4, 1939

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: January 23, 2018

Biography

Hugh Ramapolo Masekela was a renowned South African trumpeter, flugelhornist, cornetist, composer, and singer. Born on April 4, 1939, in Witbank, South Africa, Masekela became one of the most influential jazz musicians of his time. He is widely acknowledged for his contributions to the genre of Afro-jazz and for his role in the anti-apartheid movement. Masekela’s career spanned over six decades, during which he released more than 40 albums and collaborated with numerous artists worldwide. Masekela’s musical journey began at a young age. At 14, he was given a trumpet by Archbishop Trevor Huddleston, a prominent anti-apartheid activist. He quickly mastered the instrument and joined the Huddleston Jazz Band. His talents earned him a scholarship to London’s Guildhall School of Music, and later, he moved to the United States to attend the Manhattan School of Music. In the U.S., Masekela was exposed to the burgeoning jazz scene and collaborated with icons like Dizzy Gillespie and Louis Armstrong. His 1968 hit “Grazing in the Grass” topped the American pop charts and cemented his reputation globally. Beyond his musical achievements, Masekela was a vocal advocate for social justice and used his platform to speak out against apartheid. His song “Bring Him Back Home” became an anthem for the movement to free Nelson Mandela. Masekela’s influence extended beyond music; he was a cultural ambassador who brought African music to the global stage. He passed away on January 23, 2018, but his legacy continues to inspire musicians and activists alike.

5 Interesting Facts about Hugh Masekela

1. Hugh Masekela was married to singer Miriam Makeba, another prominent anti-apartheid activist and musician.

2. He was exiled from South Africa for 30 years due to his outspoken views against apartheid.

3. Masekela was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1968 for his song “Grazing in the Grass.”

4. He played alongside Paul Simon on the “Graceland” tour, which brought African music to mainstream audiences.

5. Masekela was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold, South Africa’s highest honor for excellence in arts and culture.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hugh Masekela

1. “I’ve got to where I am in life not because of something I brought to the world but through something I found – the wealth of African culture.”

2. “Music is my weapon. I believe that music can change the world.”

3. “What I do best is music, and I want to do it well. I want to do it intensely.”

4. “I want to be remembered as one who made a difference in the lives of young people – that I nurtured and inspired them.”

5. “I kept my eyes on the sky, and I knew that I would get there someday.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hugh Masekela’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1.5 million.

Children

Hugh Masekela had two children: a son named Sal Masekela, who is a well-known television host, commentator, and musician, and a daughter named Pula Twala.