Hugh Masekela, a South African trumpeter and singer, was a voice in the fight against apartheid. Read more!

Hugh Masekela is indisputably the Father of South African jazz. The music legend who was born in 1939 and died in 2018 became a voice against the oppressive regime of apartheid in South Africa in the 1960s.
This musical titan left a footprint on stages across the globe, bringing the infectious rhythms of his homeland to the world stage.
Interestingly Masekela was married to the iconic Miriam Makeba, popularly referred to as Mama Africa and an Activist too.
Hugh Masekela music has no doubt transcended borders and resonated with millions.
Summary
- Hugh Masekela, a South African trumpeter and singer, was a voice in the fight against apartheid.
- Forced into exile, he used his music to speak out against oppression, becoming a global voice for freedom.
- Masekela's sound blended jazz with South African rhythms, creating a unique style that resonated worldwide. He collaborated with musicians across Africa, promoting pan-African unity.
- After apartheid's end, Masekela returned home, inspiring a new generation with his music and activism.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings of Hugh Masekela
Hugh Masekela's journey began in the township of Witbank, South Africa (now called Emalahleni).
His Father, Thomas Selena Masekela worked as a health inspector and was also a sculptor and his Mother, Pauline Bowers Masekela was a social worker.
As a young boy, just like every other kids showed interest in playing piano and singing which actually formed a better part of his musical exploration.
However, a turning point arrived at the age of 14, in 2950. He was inspired by the film Young Man with a Horn, Masekela felt a burning desire to play the trumpet as showcased by a character in the movie.
Archbishop Trevor Huddleston, an anti-apartheid activist and chaplain, recognizing Masekela's talent, gifted him his first trumpet. He also played a crucial role in forming the Huddleston Jazz Band. With this band, Masekela's musical journey truly began, taking the first steps on a path that would make him a legend.
Hugh Masekela Exile and Musical Career
The brutal realities of apartheid forced Hugh Masekela to leave his homeland in 1960 following the shooting of 60 unarmed protesters. He fled south Africa to UK and from there travelled the world.
This marked the beginning of a 30-year exile which profoundly shape his music. Masekela found himself enrolled at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music, leading to his exposure to other genres if music and collaboration with other global artists.
Masekela was greatly influenced by the giants of the genre. The like of Miles Davis and the soulful explorations of John Coltrane undoubtedly left their mark. This exposure, coupled with the pain of exile, brought a period of musical evolution for Masekela.
His music began to transcend pure jazz, incorporating elements of South African styles like mbaqanga and the soulful melodies of his heritage. This fusion reflected the complexities of his experience – the longing for home, the energy of his new surroundings, and the ever-present struggle against apartheid, coined in his lyrics, concerts and plays.
The result was a unique and powerful sound that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Hugh Masekela Voice Against Apartheid
Hugh Masekela wasn't just a trumpet guru, he was a powerful voice against the brutal system of apartheid in South Africa. His music became an anthem for the struggle for racial equality, resonating not only in his home country but around the world.
Masekela's music wasn't a call to arms, it was a lament, a celebration of his heritage, and a condemnation of the oppression faced by Black South Africans. Songs like "Soweto Blues" captured the pain and anger of the 1976 student uprising, while "Bring Him Back Home" became a plea for the release of Nelson Mandela in 1987.
Below is the link to watch the performance of “Bring Him Back Home”( Nelson Mandela ) by Hugh Makesela:
Masekela's message transcended borders. His infectious rhythms and soulful lyrics spoke to the universal yearning for freedom. His music found a home among anti-apartheid movements and anyone fighting for racial justice.
Discography:
- Trumpet Africaine (1962)
- The Americanization of Ooga Booga (1966)
- The Best of Masekela(1969)
- Colonial Man (1976)
- Uptownship (1989) among others.
“Music is a weapon of truth...Truth is what apartheid fears most."
"I knew that my music would be a voice for the voiceless."
These powerful quotes exemplify Hugh Masekela's commitment to using his music as a tool for social justice. His legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and activists fighting for a more equitable world.
Hugh Masekela Bringing Africa to the World Stage
Hugh Masekela's musical journey wasn't confined by borders. Throughout the 1970s, he embarked on a pan-African odyssey, bringing colours to the Africa Music and also bringing African music to a global audience.
Masekela's travels took him to various countries, where he collaborated with local musicians. One particularly noteworthy collaboration was with the legendary Nigerian musician, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Playing in Fela's band exposed Masekela to the energetic Afrobeat sound, which would undoubtedly influence his own music.
Another significant partnership came with the Ghanaian band Hedzoleh Soundz. Together, they explored the infectious rhythms of highlife, a genre characterized by its guitar work and smooth vocals. These collaborations weren't just about musical exchange; they were a powerful statement of unity and a celebration of Africa's diverse musical heritage.
In the 1980s, his involvement with Paul Simon's controversial Graceland tour deserves mention. Despite the complexities surrounding the project, it undeniably brought South African music to a wider audience. Masekela's participation, alongside other exiled South African artists, highlighted the international struggle against apartheid.
Hugh Masekela's tireless collaborations transcended mere music-making. They were a testament to his passion for pan-African unity and his commitment to sharing Africa's musical spirit with the world.
Hugh Masekela's Return to South Africa
After the end of South Africa's Apartheid, Hugh Masekela's long exile finally came to an end. In 1990, he returned to his homeland, a nation forever changed. This marked a new chapter for the musician, allowing him to perform for his own people without restriction finally.
Masekela's story and experiences are chronicled in his autobiography, "Still Grazing," co-written with Michael Cheers in 2004. The book offers a personal look at his remarkable life, from his early days in South Africa to his rise as a musical icon.
Upon his return, he became a prolific artist, releasing new albums and touring extensively. His music influenced younger generations of South African musicians, inspiring them to embrace their heritage and fight for social justice.
Hugh Masekela's legacy extends far beyond music. He was a tireless advocate for equality and a symbol of hope for a united South Africa.
Hugh Masekela Awards and Honors
Hugh Masekela's remarkable career was celebrated with numerous awards and honors.
In 1968, Grammy Award Nomination - "Grazing in the Grass" wasn't quite the jazz some might expect, but it earned Masekela a Grammy nod for Best Contemporary Pop Performance. This catchy instrumental tune became a major hit, showcasing Masekela's trumpet skills and playful spirit.
Also, in 1989, Masekela never won a Grammy, and his musical impact was recognized. The album Sarafina! The Music of Liberation, featuring his collaboration with Mbongeni Ngema, garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Cast Show Album.
Also, in 2012, Masekela's dedication to music was acknowledged beyond the Grammys. He received a nomination for the 2012 Grammy Award for Best World Music Album for his album Jabulani.
These are just a few of the many accolades Hugh Masekela received throughout his career alongside recognitions and honors from various organizations.
Final Thoughts
Who could have believed that, by seeing a movie and desiring to learn to play the trumpet, Hugh Makesela could become a global artist and human rights activist?
His songs transcend borders and serve as tools for activism, generating applause from people within his country and beyond.
Hugh Masekela's life and music were a testament to the power of creativity in the face of oppression. He wasn't just a musician, a voice for freedom, a bridge between cultures, and a symbol of hope for a united South Africa.