Keyword: Hugh Masekel

Hugh Masekela

Also known as ‘Bra Hugh,’ Hugh Masekela is a South African trumpet player.

Masekela began playing the trumpet at age fourteen. He quickly became very skilled.

In March 1960, Hugh’s musical career was drastically changed. In what would come to be known as the Sharpeville Massacre, 72 Africans were shot while protesting peacefully. After this event, the South African government banned group gatherings. Hugh and his band could no longer play and it was at this time that Masekela decided to perform in exile.

First, Masekela headed to London, where he attended London's Guildhall School of Music, and he was later accepted to the prestigious Manhattan School of Music in New York City.

Two of his most famous songs are “Grazin’ in the Grass” and “Bring Him Back Home.” When Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, “Bring Him Back Home” became an anthem for his freedom and equality in South Africa.