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Hugh Masekela: ‘I don’t think I have the power to forgive’ The Guardian/The Observer David Smith Photograph by Sarah Lee Can a non-verbal instrument like a trumpet be political? No. I don’t think any musician ever thinks about making a statement. I think everybody goes into music loving it. I just came from South Africa, … Read more
As South African vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Hugh Masekela danced in time to cue his band’s next song Saturday night, he addressed an audience of both students and senior citizens at a packed Pick-Staiger Concert Hall.
Listen 2’s boutique label has also put out high profile releases by South African act Ladysmith Black Mambazo as well as smooth jazz artists like Candy Dulfer and straight ahead jazz people like Michael Brecker.
“He’s one of the artists that brought South African music to the mainstream so all of us could get to know it that way,” Coles said. “It’s been great to get to see him.”
There are moments when all the ways we like to consider ourselves here in LA — multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, multi-generational, the whole big melting pot simmering under a golden sun – get reflected in something bigger and make us think, “Hey, maybe that really IS us.”
As our Hungry No More campaign continues, famed musician and trumpeter Hugh Masekela joins us in calling on African leaders to focus investments in their agricultural sectors, which will contribute to growing their economies and reducing extreme poverty.
Asked about whether he would consider slowing down, Masekela said: “Music is my life. I cannot retire from myself. This is my job. I have always been involved with music in one form or another. I have never worked for anyone in my life.
“Pussy is the gateway to the earth. But we disrespect it… What guy hasn’t treated his lady badly by fucking around, huh?” Hugh Masekela’s eyes dart out into space, challenging, daring his audience to agree. Silence. Then a tentative show of hands from his entourage.
WOMEX is proud to announce the winner of the WOMEX 11 Artist Award: Hugh Masekela, the trumpet prodigy, fiery denouncer of Apartheid and Afro-jazz pioneer from South Africa.
“Masekela is our icon and an ambassador and, therefore, we as citizens of this country are the ones who should be quick to appreciate such heroes before they get recognition elsewhere.”
