The death is reported of South African Jazz legend Huge Masekela this morning (January 23), following a long battle with prostate cancer.
Active since 1956, the “father of South African jazz”, aged 78, authored nearly 50 albums throughout his illustrious career, and was recipient of multiple honours.
A close friend of Ghana’s, the musician performed frequently in the country, and collaborated with a number of acts from here.
All around the world, glowing tributes have poured for the beloved trumpeter and social commentator. Ghanaian celebrities including M.anifest, broadcasters Kafui Dey and Giovanni Caleb, and a host of others. More are expected to trickle in all through the day, as well as coming weeks.
Here’s a list of tributes by popular Ghanaian faces:
Listening to stimela in this moment… chills all over. What it sounds like to be a legend. Influence spanning decades and crossing numerous terrains. A life well lived. Farewell #HughMasekela.
— M.anifest (@manifestive) January 23, 2018
2 good men gone this week. Rest in peace K.B. Asante and Hugh Masekela
— Kafui Dey (@KafuiDey) January 23, 2018
— C-Real ?? (@C_RealMC) January 23, 2018
Your music will keep playing. Legends never die #HughMasekela pic.twitter.com/u7VJ5cs4Bj
— Lexis Bill (@lexisbill) January 23, 2018
Hugh Masekela … Legend ! Will always live long! RIP To the Great one
— Juls Baby (@JulsOnIt) January 23, 2018