Hugh Masekela - The Sound of South Africa : Australian Tour 2009
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Hugh Masekela |
Hugh Masekela, legendary South African jazz flugelhorn player,
trumpeter, composer and singer is making his Australian debut tour with
a select series of concerts.
With a multi-platinum selling
recording career spanning over 50 years, Hugh’s jazz credentials and
collaborative influences are extensive. In addition, his harmonious
melding of jazz with kwela (pennywhistle based street music), African
township jive and afro-beat, have contributed to his worldwide
recognition as the sound of South Africa.
As a long-time
campaigner against apartheid, who spent much of his career in
self-imposed exile, his songs express both joy and indignation,
exploring themes of inequality and hardship, protest and hope.
When
his struggle against apartheid saw him leave his country for 17 years
Louis Armstrong sent him a trumpet; Harry Belafonte arranged for him to
go to New York while Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis took him under
their wings.
He has toured with the likes of Paul Simon,
Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Miriam Makeba, painting vivid musical
portraits of the struggles, sorrows, joys and passions of South Africa.
As
well as Hugh on flugelhorn and vocals, the concerts will feature an
exuberant five piece band comprising Tendai Paliani (Guitar), Abednigo
Zulu (Bass), Randal Skippers (Keyboards), Lee-Roy Sauls (Drums) and
Francis Fuster (Percussion).
Special guest on the tour is Chris
Gudu, who is Zimbabwe born but now based permanently in NSW. Chris and
Hugh share a common heritage with Chris being from the Ndebele tribe,
the same as Hugh's grandmother. Chris’ powerful and high energy
performance evolved from Umbaqanga or Southern African Township Jive
Music and with his band, the rhythms are exhilarating, inviting and
irresistible.
Hugh will perform a best-of collection from his
extensive back catalogue and tracks from his 35th studio album Phola.
Don’t miss this extraordinarily uplifting performer and a rare glimpse
into the personal and political journey of one of Africa’s most gifted
sons. Hugh Masekela - Tour Dates & Venues3rd Oct - Bellingen NSW, Bellingen Global Carnival 6th Oct - Sydney, Sydney Opera House 8th Oct - Melbourne, Hamer Hall 11th Oct - Perth, Perth Concert Hall
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