Watch: J’Something’s unveils new song with Hugh Masekela
The unlikely pair of musicians unearths a heavenly collaboration.
Picture: Nigel Sibanda
Iconic trumpeter Hugh Masekela and MiCasa frontman J’Something set off on a journey to create a song inspired by each other and the rich heritage of South Africa. This diverse collaboration by two celebrated musical icons from different generations and genres has resulted in today’s launch of Heaven In You.
This week also sees the launch of the video that captures Hugh Masekela and J’Something’s behind-the-scenes magic. Developed by Mercedes-Benz, this is the fifth in a series of short films under a successful SUV campaign Find your Best – #EveryTerrain.
VIDEO: #EveryTerrain: Episode 5 (Bra Hugh Masekala and J’Something)
In each episode, an unlikely duo travels to a remote corner of southern Africa. On varying terrain, and inspired by their experiences, they need to produce a one-of-a-kind creation to “find their best”. Each duo has just 48 hours to complete their specific challenge, with tensions running high as the stories unfold.
In episode 5, Masekela and J’Something talk the language of music as they drive along the Garden Route in search of inspiration. Their task is to record an original song, which resulted in Heaven In You. The haunting lyrics tell of Hugh’s love for his homeland, despite his exile during the country’s troubled past.
J’Something says: “Spending 48 hours with one of my mentors and someone I look up to in the music industry has been the highlight of my career. Listening to Bra Hugh talk about South Africa as his ‘first love’, witnessing the beauty he sees in everything, the land, the people, the endless opportunities, and then watching him translate this passion into music was awe-inspiring. Heaven In You is more than just a great song; I wanted to write a love letter from Hugh Masekela for South Africa that captured his relationship with the country and my respect, love and gratitude I have for this land. I hope this song will inspire people to love and appreciate every curve of this beautiful country.”
“These films celebrate our culture and diversity superbly, and also showcase our vehicles’ capabilities,” says marketing director for Mercedes-Benz Cars, Selvin Govender. “Our aim was to create credible, character-driven content that is engaging and compelling to a broad local audience.”
SONG: Heaven in You: J’Something and Hugh Masekela (The long and short versions are in the link below):
