South African Tourism, in collaboration with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation, recently celebrated the legendary late jazz musician, Hugh Masekela, at an event held at Dizzy's Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York. The event honored Masekela's contributions to jazz music and his impact on South Africa as a cultural destination.

WALL OF FAME?

The highlight of the afternoon was the induction of Hugh Masekela into the Ertegun Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition for his exceptional talent and remarkable achievements in the music industry. South African Tourism and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation hosted a pre-induction reception at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Ertegun Hall of Fame which was attended by special guests, jazz enthusiasts and journalists, who gathered to pay tribute to Masekela's legacy. Following the reception, guests were invited to Dizzy's Club for the induction ceremony and special musical performances, which included select performances from Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation scholarship students from the Manhattan School of Music. Selema Masekela and Pula Twala, the children of Hugh Masekela, accepted the honour on behalf of their late father.

HISTORY?

Hugh Masekela, fondly known as "Bra Hugh," was born and raised in South Africa, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. His unique style and fusion of African rhythms, jazz, and world music captivated audiences around the globe for decades. Masekela's music has become a symbol of South African culture, showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the country and inspiring travellers to experience the destination's unique offerings. Pula Twala, Board Member of the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation says, "In 2015 Hugh Masekela established the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation for the purpose of preserving and promoting our African heritage and the restoration of our African identity through various mediums. In the five years since his passing, the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation has continued to devote energy and time to maintaining and motivating projects that Bra Hugh initiated while still with us, as well as new initiatives that fit within our mission statement.' He goes on to say that, "None of these projects or initiatives would be possible without the continued support, both material and spiritual, of our friends and family, sisters and sons, institutions and organisations, near and far, sharing the values that Hugh espoused, promoted and stood for.'