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On behalf of Parliament, the Presiding Officers extend deepest condolences to the family and friends of iconic musician, composer, singer and inspirational South African Bra Hugh Masekela.

Since the 1950s, his music has portrayed the hardships, sorrows, joys and passions of our country and the struggle for freedom from oppression and injustice.

It was music which resonated internationally and continues to appeal and shape the contemporary arts landscape. Amongst his unforgettable masterpieces, which fired up revolutionary consciousness, were Grazing in the Grass, the sombre power of Stimela, Soweto Blues which spoke of the 1976 youth protest, and Bring Him Back Home - the song that became an anthem for the movement to free Nelson Mandela.

When he spoke out and agitated against the apartheid regime, he was banished from South Africa, returning only in 1990.

The music continued after 1994, when South Africa became a democracy. In 2016 Bra Hugh performed for the first time again after 60 years with Abdullah Ibrahim. The occasion commemorated the 40thanniversary of the 1976 uprising.

Bra Hugh’s enduring legacy will live on and South Africa and the world will continue to draw inspiration from his accomplished, odds-defying, selfless and inspirational life.

Issued by Parliament of South Africa