July 2nd, 2010
By Annah K. Tseko
He is a legend. He is a powerful jazz and Afrobeat singer and musician.
Masekela is in his early 70’s. He grew up in Alexandria (part of Johannesburg, South Africa). He began to play the trumpet when he was 14 years old and by then, he knew that he wanted to make music. He was into musical instrument playing a lot and singing was his outlet. His parents did not like the fact that their son wanted to make music. Despite these challenges he faced, he did not give up on his goal, but he kept on singing as he was supposed to.
“It has always been my dream to express myself and the issues surrounding us, such as unity throughout the world,” said Masekela during his interview with Global Girl Media at his rehearsal session at the Market Theater. He was inspired by the successful singers, such as the late Miriam Makeba, who was his former wife and partner in singing during the 1980’s, before they parted ways and branched into different genres.
Masekela has been in the music industry for 30 years. He won Grammy awards and honors and he is proud of himself for achieving this much. He also likes the fact that there are young stars that are branching to keep the jazz industry alive and kicking. “It takes one who can sing to make it happen,” said Masekela, as he laughed. He advised people who do not know how to sing not to feel offended if it is not their talent. He suggested that they can work in industries as producers if they really love music.
Mr. Hugh Masekela is not only a musician in appearance, he is also a partner in helping NGOs (non-governmental organizations), such as social services. He performed at the World Cup opening ceremony with R & B star, R Kelly, and promoted the World Cup goal triad: Fight AIDS in South Africa through sports, soccer, basketball, and drama.
Masekela promises to continue in helping the world succeed and to produce his good jazz music to inspire young and old people.
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