Hugh Masekela legendary jazz trumpeter has died at age 78 #jazz

Legendary jazz trumpeter Hugh Masekela, a leading figure in the struggle to end apartheid and "the father of South African jazz", has died aged 78.

In a statement, his family said he had "passed peacefully" in Johannesburg "after a protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer".

Masekela gained global recognition with his distinctive Afro-Jazz sound and hits such as Soweto Blues.

The 1977 song became synonymous with the anti-apartheid movement.

In a statement , South African President Jacob Zuma said Masekela's death was "an immeasurable loss to the music industry and to the country at large".

Zuma continued: "His contribution to the struggle for liberation will never be forgotten."

Best selling smooth jazz at amazon.com
Jazz from Amazon.com