Bra Hugh will never be silenced

The last notes from his well-used flugelhorn evaporated into the ether some time ago, but the music of Bra Hugh Masekela will be playing on in the hearts of all South African music lovers today.

It is not easy when a legend departs the stage.

It was hard to say goodbye to Nelson Mandela and just as painful to realise that Bra Hugh will no longer be up there in front of a microphone.

He died yesterday after a prolonged battle against prostate cancer, surrounded by his family.

At the age of 78, he had lived a life which was fast, which was creative and which left a legacy that will be felt for years, if not generations, to come. Masekela’s unique position in South African society came from his talent as a musician and songwriter, but also from his strong and public opposition to apartheid.

It is remarkable to hear so many successful young black musicians paying tribute to him, acknowledging the role he played in their lives and the inspiration he brought to their careers in showbiz.

But more than that, his contribution to the development of South African – and especially African – music was massive.

He came from the post-war era of jazz and of swing, but did not reject the influences of either rock or soul music.

His gift was to blend those influences along with the traditional rhythms of Africa and to never allow the music of his continent to take a back seat to any other.

His songs also gave hope to millions of South Africans, that, one day, they would all be free in the land of their birth. In some senses, Masekela provided the soundtrack to the struggle.

He will live on in our hearts and our minds … and our hi-fi speakers.

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