South African jazz legend, Hugh Masekela dies at 78

Legendary jazz trumpeter Hugh Masekela, a leading figure in the struggle to end apartheid and "the father of South African jazz", has died at the age of 78.  

 

In a statement, his family said he had "passed away peacefully" in Johannesburg "after a protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer".  

 

Masekela gained global recognition with his distinctive Afro-Jazz sound and hits such as Soweto Blues.  The 1977 song became synonymous with the anti-apartheid movement.

credit: Linda Ikeji's Blog http://www.lindaikejisblog.com/2018/1/south-african-jazz-legend-hugh-masekela-dies-at-78.html