Cancer Kills South African Jazz Legend

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Legendary South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela has died at the age of 78 after a decade-long fight with cancer, a statement from his family today disclosed.

Often called the “Father of South African jazz,” Masekela died in Johannesburg after what his family said was a “protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer.”

Trumpeter, singer and composer Masekela, affectionately known locally as “Bra Hugh,” started playing the horn at 14 and quickly became an integral part of the 1950s jazz scene in Johannesburg as a member of the Jazz Epistles.

He collaborated with many musicians including Paul Simon and Herb Alpert. He was married to South African singer and activist Miriam Makeba for two years. May his soul rest in peace.