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Jazz Trumpet Great Hugh Masekela Dies at 78

R.I.P.

South African’s career spanned five decades.

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REUTERS/Andrea De Silva / Reuters

Legendary South African jazz trumpeter Hugh Masekela has died at the age of 78 in Johannesburg. According to his family, Masekela “passed peacefully” after a long battle with prostate cancer. Masekela’s last two concerts in 2010 were viewed by many as an “epitaph” to his five-decade career. “A loving father, brother, grandfather, and friend, our hearts beat with a profound loss,” his family said, in a statement. “Hugh’s global and activist contribution to and participation in the areas of music, theater and the arts in general is contained in the minds and memories of millions across six continents.”

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