The sad news has just been announced that the legendary South African trumpet player and political activist Hugh Masekela died, it is reported, earlier today (January 23).
I was privileged to catch him live at Sage Gateshead in 2010 and it was surely one of the most memorable nights experienced in a building renowned for memorable nights. Seven-plus years on I can still vividly recall the excitement generated on stage and the two-way loving vibes that passed between audience and performers.
His life hadn't been an easy one and yet his sense of humour was undimmed and nor was the quality of his flugelhorn playing - that gorgeous sound!
I'd first been drawn to his musical skills when I saw a segment of the musical King Kong on television back in the early '60s. Such a catchy tune and infectious rhythm - I can still sing it. I didn't realise at the time just how influential a figure Hugh Masekela would become.
More recently his music was featured in The Suitcase, a play presented at Northern Stage last September. Also, three CD set from the '90s was reviewed here in December.
An iconic figure who will be sadly missed by many both in and out of the jazz world.
Hugh Masekela was 78.
Obituary.Lance.
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