Fans, fellow musicians and friends have taken to social media to express their sadness over the loss of legendary Jazz musician, Hugh Masekela.
Masekela died at the age of 78 in Johannesburg on Tuesday, after a long battle with prostate cancer.
ALSO READ: Tributes pour in for legendary Bra Hugh Masekela
He was affectionately known as Bra Hugh, and his trumpet and unorthodox yet lovely voice were his signature.
Bra Hugh graced the country with songs such as Stimela, Mbombela, Tanayi and Mamoriri which were often played at township weddings and parties.
He was also known for his unapologetic stance of what many called “the politics of hair”.
As a way of encouraging African women to embrace their “natural” hair, Masekela refused to be pictured with women who wore weaves.
ALSO READ: Father of SA jazz, Hugh Masekela leaves a powerful legacy
Many social media tributes have described him as one of the architects of South African jazz whose music embodied political, social and cultural teachings and was a comfort for many during the apartheid era.
Read tweets below:
Blessed for every moment I got to spend with him. Always quick with the jokes and stories, and as real as they get. What a man. #RIPBraHugh 🎺 pic.twitter.com/HdtBYdnNrz
— Maps Maponyane (@MapsMaponyane) January 23, 2018
When I observe bra Hugh's trumpet, it is not merely a musical instrument that I see, but a torch that illuminated the light of hope during our darkest hour, especially when he boldly sang "bring back Nelson Mandela, bring him back home to Soweto." #RIPBraHugh #RIPBraHughMasekela pic.twitter.com/icBllfEJU8
— Min. Nathi Mthethwa (@NathiMthethwaSA) January 23, 2018
Across continents, across nations, across decades and across generations Bra Hugh captured the hearts and minds of so many. I am listening to some of my favourite songs and Remembering the last time I watched him perform live. #RIPHughMasekela #RIPBraHugh pic.twitter.com/GKF3Wwgapq
— Peter Ndoro (@peterndoro) January 24, 2018
This song gave hope in the dark days , and when uTata actually did walk hand in hand with mama winnie it became even sweeter . Yes #musicwithpurpose #BraHugh #RIPHughMasekela
— Lebo Diseko (@lebo_diseko) January 23, 2018
Had the privilege of working with him at events on a number of occasions and the twinkle in his eyes was something to behold. What a legend. #RIPBraHugh
— Jo-Ann Strauss (@jo_annstrauss) January 23, 2018
As heavy as our hearts are at the news of you having left us, may your trumpet keep blowing as you go to meet our maker! #RIPBraHugh 🖤 pic.twitter.com/5qh9Iew4Yv
— MISRED (@iMisred) January 23, 2018
What a legend
" Be careful what you think about , your words should be constructive . pull people together , not pull them apart #RIPHughMasikela #RIPBraHugh #WednesdayWisdom pic.twitter.com/PKL5skn6qY— Pallu (@PalluSA) January 24, 2018
Rest In Peace Bra Hugh Masekela, gone but will never be forgotten 17 pic.twitter.com/cFXwz02mFJ
— Mzilikazi wa Afrika (@IamMzilikazi) January 23, 2018
https://twitter.com/UKenyatta/status/955803283737767936
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