#dorothy masuka

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Dorothy Masuka

https://www.unadonnalgiorno.it/dorothy-masuka/

Dorothy Masuka, cantautrice e compositrice jazz sudafricana nata in Zimbabwe, icona e simbolo della cultura e della musica dell’Africa tutta.

Ha contribuito in maniera significativa alla lotta contro il regime dell’apartheid.

Una carriera durata mezzo secolo, iniziata precocemente, e sospesa per lungo tempo, perché costretta in esilio a causa dei suoi posizionamenti politici.

Nata a Bulawayo, all’epoca Rhodesia del Sud, il 3 settembre 1935, a 12 anni si era trasferita con la  famiglia in Sudafrica, a Johannesburg, dove ha frequentato una scuola cattolica nel cui coro si è subito fatta notare per le sue doti fuori dall’ordinario. Negli anni dell’adolescenza ha composto oltre 30 brani.

A 16 anni ha lasciato gli studi per seguire il sogno di diventare cantante, nonostante la disapprovazione dei genitori. Ha firmato il suo primo contratto con una casa discografica e cominciato a collaborare con le band più importanti del tempo.

Il brano che l’ha portata alla ribalta è stato Hamba Nontsokolo, una delle canzoni più popolari degli anni ’50.

Ma, col crescere della celebrità sono arrivati i primi problemi, legati ai contenuti delle sue composizioni provocatorie contro l’apartheid.

Nel 1961, le vennero sequestrate le registrazioni di Lumumba, canzone che rendeva omaggio a Patrice Lumumba, primo presidente eletto democraticamente della Repubblica Democratica del Congo. Stessa sorte era toccata al brano Dr. Malan, una critica sulle leggi dell’apartheid del Partito Nazionalista, anch’esso sequestrato e bandito.

Costretta a lasciare il paese per la sua incolumità, ha vissuto in Malawi e in Tanzania dove è diventata la paladina della causa dell’indipendenza in Africa.

Per quasi vent’anni ha vissuto, in Zambia, dove  lavorava come hostess per una compagnia aerea, abbandonando completamente la carriera musicale.

I suoi brani più memorabili sono stati Pata Pata, Khawuleza, Kulala e Into Yam, interpretati da celebrità del calibro di Miriam Makeba e Hugh Masekela.

Nel 1994, anno in cui Nelson Mandela è stato eletto Presidente del Sudafrica, è tornata a casa e ha ripreso la sua ricerca e produzione di brani e musica sulla storia del continente e dei personaggi che l’hanno reso grande, come re Shaka che fondò il popolo Ndebele, dello Zimbabwe e del Sud Africa.

Nel 2002 è stata inserita nella American Hall of Fame.

Fino alla fine dei suoi giorni, e molto in là con gli anni, ha continuato a cantare e esibirsi in tutto il mondo, levando forte la sua voce in favore della decolonizzazione.

È scomparsa a Johannesburg il 23 febbraio 2019 a causa di un ictus.

[blvckqueersouthafrica]

A Homage to South African Women in Jazz.

By Makeeda Swan

We take a look at some of the women who shaped the jazz scene here in South Africa. In a country overflowing with talented women, narrowing down the spotlight to fit into one blog post alone was no easy task. But the women featured here- Miriam Makeba and the Skylarks, Letta Mbulu, Dolly Rathebe and Dorothy Masuka- were true pioneers, not only in their innovative music but also as beautiful, shining lights during such dark and troubled times.

Letta Mbulu

Born and raised in Soweto, South Africa, she has been active as a singer since the 1960s. While still a teenager she toured with the musical King Kong — but left for the United States in 1964 due to Apartheid.

In New York City, she connected with other South African exiles, including Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela and Jonas Gwangwa and went on to work with Cannonball Adderley, David Axelrod and Harry Belafonte.

On screen, her singing can also be heard in Roots, The Color Purple (1985), and the 1973 film A Warm December, and she was a guest on a Season 6 episode of Soul Train. Mbulu also provided the Swahili chant in Michael Jackson's single, "Liberian Girl". Producer Quincy Jones has said of her: "Mbulu is the roots lady, projecting a sophistication and warmth which stirs hope for attaining pure love, beauty, and unity in the world."

She is the founding member of the South African Artists United (SAAU), an organisation that was established in 1986.

Miriam Makeba

Miriam Makeba was a revolutionary artist who used her voice to shape history. As swing dancers, her legacy as “Mama Africa” should resonate deeply within our hearts, as it draws parallels to the unity and joy we find on the dance floor.

Miriam Makeba, born in 1932 in Johannesburg, South Africa, was an artist whose harmonious voice and compelling performances transcended borders, much like the way swing dancing breaks down cultural barriers and brings people together. With each note she sang, Makeba carried a message of hope, resilience, and unity that resonated with people around the world.

Makeba’s musical journey began at a young age when her unique voice drew attention. In the 1950s, her partnership with the Manhattan Brothers catapulted her into the spotlight. Her solo career flourished, and her enchanting melodies fused indigenous South African sounds with international influences, creating a unique genre of her own.

As Makeba’s fame grew, so did her commitment to justice. While her music charmed audiences across the globe, she used her platform to shine a light on the brutal realities of apartheid. A noteworthy example of this is her heartfelt address to the United Nations Special Committee, which added momentum to the anti-apartheid movement.

One of Makeba’s most renowned hits, Pata Pata, became a global sensation, capturing the rhythm of the African soul and inspiring dance floors everywhere. The song’s infectious melody carried a profound message of joy amidst struggle, showcasing Makeba’s ability to infuse activism into her music.

Makeba’s return to South Africa after 31 years of exile was a triumphant homecoming. Her presence during the nation’s transition to democracy was a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice. Her voice, which had transcended continents, now echoed the dreams of her fellow South Africans.

Miriam Makeba’s legacy is etched into the annals of history. Her music remains a timeless testament to the power of art as a catalyst for change, a concept that deeply resonates with our swing dance community’s mission and values. As “Mama Africa,” she continues to inspire artists and activists, embodying the spirit of a nation’s struggle and the triumph of its people. Swing dance endevours to embody the spirit of unity and celebration of diversity, and this is why it’s so important to pay homage to the artists, like Makeba, who set the wheels of change in motion.

In addition to Pata Pata, Makeba is also famous for the song entitled The Click Song, which you can listen to here, further showcasing the diverse and captivating range of her musical contributions.

The Skylarks

The Skylarks were an all-woman South African ensemble, founded by Miriam Makeba in the 1950s. At one time they were the most popular black singing band in the country. Emerging from the lively townships that brim with creativity, each member of the Skylarks nurtured their craft from a young age. They were a remarkable musical group that embraced and celebrated our rich South African cultural heritage by mixing jazz with more traditional local music, resulting in a new, unique genre of African Jazz. Comprising the extraordinary talents of Letta Mbulu, Abigail Kubeka, Mary Rabotapi, Sanna Mabusela and Thembi Mathe (among others, who all contributed at different points in time), their music weaves a beautiful story of tradition and modernity. Our swing dance community can truly resonate with this celebration of cultural heritage and musical innovation.

Drawing inspiration from the rhythmic heartbeats of our ancestors, the Skylarks infuse their music with echoes of Isicathamiya, Mbube, and Marabi, taking us on a nostalgic journey through the sounds of our past. Their harmonious melodies pay homage to our roots while embracing the contemporary spirit that unites us as South Africans.

At the heart of the Skylarks’ music beats a message of hope, love, and unity—values that resonate deeply within our swing dance community. Through their soul-stirring performances, they embody the spirit of togetherness, much like our dancers who come together on the dance floor to share moments of joy and connection. Their harmonies, like the universal language of dance, bridge linguistic boundaries, touching every South African heart.

Over the years, the Skylarks received well-deserved acclaim and graced stages worldwide. From prestigious music festivals to intimate community gatherings, their soul-stirring music has touched the lives of many, inspiring cultural pride and celebrating the spirit of Ubuntu.

The Skylarks’ legacy lives on through their timeless songs like Hush and Inkoma Zodwa, which you can listen to here.

Dolly Rathebe

Dolly Rathebe, a name synonymous with grace and talent, was an artist who danced through life. Born in 1928 in Randfontein and growing up in Sophiatown, Johannesburg, she displayed an early passion for performing and singing, which would lead her to become one of the most cherished icons of her time. Rathebe’s captivating voice and charismatic presence left an indelible mark on the nation’s entertainment landscape.

Blessed with a rich and soulful voice, Rathebe found her calling in the world of jazz music, a genre that, like swing dance, thrives on rhythm and improvisation. Her silky-smooth vocals, often described as captivating and unforgettable, earned her a dedicated fan base across the country. Rathebe’s performances at renowned jazz clubs like The Pelican in Orlando West became the stuff of legends, and she soon gained recognition as one of South Africa’s jazz sensations.

Rathebe’s talent was not limited to music; she also ventured into acting with equal prowess. Her silver screen debut in the 1951 film Jim Comes to Jo’burg– the first film to portray urban Africans in a positive light- resonates with the themes of breaking boundaries and embracing diversity. Dolly’s on-screen presence and emotive performances earned her critical acclaim, making her one of the country’s most celebrated actresses in apartheid-era cinema.

Rathebe’s artistry broke down racial barriers in the entertainment industry. As an African woman, she achieved significant milestones during a time when opportunities for black artists were limited. Through her music and acting, she shattered stereotypes and inspired a generation, proving that talent knows no boundaries.

Rathebe’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists. Her music and films serve as a testament to the power of artistic expression in shaping society, a concept deeply cherished by our dance community.

Throughout her illustrious career, Rathebe received numerous accolades and honours for her outstanding contributions to the arts. Her impact on South African culture led her to be revered not just as a talented artist but also as an icon of resilience and artistic excellence. Her memory lives on, uniting generations and celebrating the beauty of artistic heritage.

Although  Dolly Rathebe left this world in 2004, her legacy lives on in the hearts of South Africans. Her songs and films are cherished by generations, and her influence continues to resonate with music lovers and film enthusiasts alike. Rathebe remains an eternal symbol of the beauty and power of South Africa’s artistic heritage.

Dorothy Masuka

Dorothy Masuka, born in 1935 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (formerly Southern Rhodesia) and raised in Johannesburg, was a trailblazing jazz artist who left a significant mark on South Africa’s musical landscape. Her powerful and evocative voice was a conduit for storytelling, conveying themes of love, social injustice, and the pursuit of freedom.

Masuka’s musical journey began at a young age when she discovered her passion for singing and performing. In the 1950s, she moved to South Africa, where she quickly gained recognition for her exceptional talent. Her early compositions, infused with jazz, mbaqanga, and township rhythms, showcased her unique ability to connect with audiences and resonate with their hearts.

Masuka’s music became a source of inspiration and comfort during the oppressive years of apartheid. Her soulful and emotive performances carried messages of hope and resilience, giving voice to the struggles and aspirations of the marginalized communities. She wrote and performed songs like Hamba Nontsokolo, which became anthems of the anti-apartheid movement, uplifting the spirits of those fighting for freedom.

Despite facing exile due to her outspoken stance against apartheid, Masuka continued to use her music as a tool for activism, amplifying the voices of those in need. Her performances at international venues and political gatherings mirror our community’s efforts to use dance as a means of spreading positivity and awareness on a global scale.

Masuka’s triumphant return to South Africa after 31 years in exile aligns with the resilience and unity celebrated within the global swing dance community. Her legacy lives on, much like the enduring spirit of swing dance, as a symbol of hope and progress.

Throughout her illustrious career, Masuka received numerous awards and honors, acknowledging her significant contributions to the arts. She was not only celebrated for her musical brilliance but also admired for her role as a powerful voice in the fight against apartheid.

Her passing in 2019 marked the end of a remarkable era, yet her legacy continues to inspire music enthusiasts and activists.

In addition to Hamba Nontsokolo, Masuka is famous for the songs Lendaba and My Parents, which you can listen to here.

Here she is performing at the Mandela Theatre in 2010.

Thank you to these phenomenal women. May their legacy live on and may we always remember not only their music but also their resilience and social impact. Their pursuit of unity, freedom and innovation is something that our swing dance community holds dear.

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Download south African songs

The music of South Africa is rich and different, mirroring the country's mind boggling history and social impacts. From conventional ancestral rhythms to current classifications like hip-jump and house music, South African music has developed over the course of the a very long time to turn into a vital piece of the country's social personality. In this blog entry, we'll take an excursion as the decades progressed and investigate the development of South African music.

1950s and 1960s: The Early Years

During the 1950s and 1960s, South African music was vigorously impacted by conventional ancestral rhythms and Western popular music. Numerous specialists of this time, such as Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela, became known for their combination of African and Western melodic styles.

During this time, municipality music likewise arose as a famous class. This music was made by dark South Africans living in Download south African songs isolated municipalities, and it mirrored the battles and treacheries they faced under politically-sanctioned racial segregation. Specialists like Dorothy Masuka and Spokes Mashiyane utilised their music to communicate their political perspectives and rouse opposition against the politically-sanctioned racial segregation system.

1970s and 1980s: The Brilliant Time of South African Music

The 1970s and 1980s are frequently alluded to as the brilliant period of South African music. During this time, a few powerful craftsmen arose, and the bluegrass' music scene turned out to be more different and trial.

One of the main classes of this period was mbaqanga, a combination of customary Zulu music and Western jazz. Download south African songs Specialists like Mahlathini and the Mahotella Sovereigns turned out to be enormously famous in South Africa and then some, and their music affected different types like kwaito and Afro-pop.

One more significant kind of this time was bubblegum music, a sort of dance music that arose in the municipalities. Craftsmen like Brenda Fassie and Yvonne Chaka became commonly recognized names in South Africa, and their music mirrored the changing social and political scene of the country.

1990s and 2000s: The Ascent of Kwaito and House Music

During the 1990s and 2000s, South African music kept on developing, with kwaito and house music arising as the prevailing sorts. Kwaito was a sort of dance music that began in the municipalities and was vigorously impacted by hip-jump and house music.

Craftsmen like Mandoza and Trompies became inseparable from kwaito, and their music mirrored the social and financial changes that were occurring in South Africa. House music additionally turned out to be massively well known during this time, with specialists like Dark Espresso and DJ Crisp becoming significant stars in the down home's music scene.

[hiperchile]

Female-fronted February #5 (Sibongile Khumalo)

Sibongile Khumalo - Ancient Evenings

Released: 1996, South Africa

Genre: Jazz

Duration: 47 min.

Links: Spotify Youtube Apple Music Tidal Amazon Music

Debut album of iconic South African singer Sibongile Khumalo. Sang at Mandela’s inauguration and the 1995 rugby world cup, which she states was “the one and only time I’ve ever watched a rugby match, at any level, of any kind.” Icon. 

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous voice + full and lively instrumentation. What’s not to like? Nothing, I say. A very well-rounded album deserving of all the praise it gets.

If you liked this, you might like...

Miriam Makeba (unarguably the icon and absolutely required listening for anyone and everyone)

Dorothy Masuka

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Dorothy Masuka - Phata On

Dorothy Masuka – Phata On

3 September 1935 – 23 February 2019

Africa lost one of her lyrical daughters with the passing of Dorothy Masuka on 23 February 2019. She was 83 and she lived well.

The jazz artist, songwriter and activist was a powerhouse. She taught at Boston University and wrote and recorded music right to the end. Her latest album, Nginje, was released in 2018 – Another great contribution to African…

[chrischarambadiaries]

30 Days of Iconic Zimbabwean Jazz: Nhingirikini by Dorothy Masuka

30 Days of Iconic Zimbabwean Jazz: Nhingirikini by Dorothy Masuka

The late Dorothy Masuka or Auntie Dorothy, as several generations of appreciative southern African fans call the warm and charismatic vocalist and songwriter, blazed a trail for female pop stars in the Southern African region and became a dogged advocate of the struggle against apartheid. Performing in a jazz-inflected pop style and singing in native African languages often about politics, she…

[sugarmusicnews]

Hamba Notsokolo – Dorothy Masuka

Hamba Notsokolo – Dorothy Masuka

Hamba Notsokolo – Dorothy Masuka

I am a little confused about this song as when I put the title into Google translate, it tells me that Dorothy Masuka is telling us to walk with the dragon. Now I am no expert on Zulu culture, but I can’t ever recall dragons playing a big part, so I thought that maybe Google was being flowery with their translation. But then I listened more closely to Dorothy’s…

[skippyv20]

Dear Skippy, my two cents on Pata Pata. It was originally written by Dorothy Masuka, a Zambian singer-songwriter who sadly passed away last year 2019. I Had the the pleasure of meeting her on three occasions. She was good friends with Miriam Makeba. When you dance you dont really touch a partner. I sing Pata Pata and it's very popular.

Thank you so much....😊❤️❤️❤️❤️

[naijahomeland]

Veteran Jazz Musician Dorothy Masuka Dies At 83

Veteran Jazz Musician Dorothy Masuka Dies At 83

South Africa’s most talented musician and Zimbabwean born jazz veteran, Dorothy Masuka, reportedly passed away today at the age of 83.

Since the confirmation of her death, tributes have flooded Twitter.

It’s, however, painful that we’re gradually loosing music icons as Oliver Mtukudzi passed away weeks back and we’re yet to recover from such great loss.

Here are tributes paid on Twitter to the…

[imran16829]

Dorothy Masuka Wiki, Biography, Age, Husband, Family, Net Worth, Cause of Death

Dorothy Masuka Wiki, Biography, Age, Husband, Family, Net Worth, Cause of Death

Dorothy Masuka Wiki, Dorothy Masuka Biography

Dorothy Masuka Wiki

Dorothy Masuka (born 3 September 1935) is a South African jazz singer.

She was born in Bulawayo, the fourth of seven children, and her mother was Zulu while her father was a Zambian hotel chef. Still, she attended a Catholic school deemed good by the standards of education allowed blacks. Her family moved to South Africa when she…

[thehighpriestofreverseracism]

I love Dorothy Masuka  ❤️

[blackkudos]

Hugh Masekela

Hugh Ramapolo Masekela (4 April 1939 – 23 January 2018) was a South African trumpeter, flugelhornist, cornetist, composer and singer. He has been described as the "father of South African jazz." Masekela was known for his jazz compositions and for writing well-known anti-apartheid songs such as "Soweto Blues" and "Bring Him Back Home". He also had a number 1 US pop hit in 1968 with his version of "Grazing in the Grass".

Early life

Masekela was born in KwaGuqa Township, Witbank, South Africa to Thomas Selena Masekela, who was a health inspector and sculptor and his wife, Pauline Bowers Masekela, a social worker. As a child, he began singing and playing piano and largely was raised by his grandmother, who ran an illegal bar for miners. At the age of 14, after seeing the film Young Man with a Horn (in which Kirk Douglas plays a character modelled on American jazz cornetist Bix Beiderbecke), Masekela took up playing the trumpet. His first trumpet, from Louis Armstrong, was given to him by Archbishop Trevor Huddleston, the anti-apartheid chaplain at St. Peter's Secondary School now known as St. Martin's School (Rosettenville).

Huddleston asked the leader of the then Johannesburg "Native" Municipal Brass Band, Uncle Sauda, to teach Masekela the rudiments of trumpet playing. Masekela quickly mastered the instrument. Soon, some of his schoolmates also became interested in playing instruments, leading to the formation of the Huddleston Jazz Band, South Africa's first youth orchestra. By 1956, after leading other ensembles, Masekela joined Alfred Herbert's African Jazz Revue.

From 1954, Masekela played music that closely reflected his life experience. The agony, conflict, and exploitation South Africa faced during the 1950s and 1960s inspired and influenced him to make music and also spread political change. He was an artist who in his music vividly portrayed the struggles and sorrows, as well as the joys and passions of his country. His music protested about apartheid, slavery, government; the hardships individuals were living. Masekela reached a large population that also felt oppressed due to the country's situation.

Following a Manhattan Brothers tour of South Africa in 1958, Masekela wound up in the orchestra of the musical King Kong, written by Todd Matshikiza.King Kong was South Africa's first blockbuster theatrical success, touring the country for a sold-out year with Miriam Makeba and the Manhattan Brothers' Nathan Mdledle in the lead. The musical later went to London's West End for two years.

Career

At the end of 1959, Dollar Brand (later known as Abdullah Ibrahim), Kippie Moeketsi, Makhaya Ntshoko, Johnny Gertze and Hugh formed the Jazz Epistles, the first African jazz group to record an LP. They performed to record-breaking audiences in Johannesburg and Cape Town through late 1959 to early 1960.

Following the 21 March 1960 Sharpeville massacre—where 69 protestors were shot dead in Sharpeville, and the South African government banned gatherings of ten or more people—and the increased brutality of the Apartheid state, Masekela left the country. He was helped by Trevor Huddleston and international friends such as Yehudi Menuhin and John Dankworth, who got him admitted into London's Guildhall School of Music. During that period, Masekela visited the United States, where he was befriended by Harry Belafonte. He attended Manhattan School of Music in New York, where he studied classical trumpet from 1960 to 1964. In 1964, Makeba and Masekela were married, divorcing two years later.

He had hits in the United States with the pop jazz tunes "Up, Up and Away" (1967) and the number-one smash "Grazing in the Grass" (1968), which sold four million copies. He also appeared at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, and was subsequently featured in the film Monterey Pop by D. A. Pennebaker. In 1974, Masekela and friend Stewart Levine organised the Zaire 74 music festival in Kinshasa set around the Rumble in the Jungle boxing match.

He played primarily in jazz ensembles, with guest appearances on recordings by The Byrds ("So You Want to Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star" and "Lady Friend") and Paul Simon ("Further to Fly"). In 1984, Masekela released the album Techno Bush; from that album, a single entitled "Don't Go Lose It Baby" peaked at number two for two weeks on the dance charts. In 1987, he had a hit single with "Bring Him Back Home". The song became enormously popular, and turned into an unofficial anthem of the anti-apartheid movement and an anthem for the movement to free Nelson Mandela.

A renewed interest in his African roots led Masekela to collaborate with West and Central African musicians, and finally to reconnect with Southern African players when he set up with the help of Jive Records a mobile studio in Botswana, just over the South African border, from 1980 to 1984. Here he re-absorbed and re-used mbaqanga strains, a style he continued to use following his return to South Africa in the early 1990s.

In 1985 Masekela founded the Botswana International School of Music (BISM), which held its first workshop in Gaborone in that year. The event, still in existence, continues as the annual Botswana Music Camp, giving local musicians of all ages and from all backgrounds the opportunity to play and perform together. Masekela taught the jazz course at the first workshop, and performed at the final concert.

Also in the 1980s, Masekela toured with Paul Simon in support of Simon's album Graceland, which featured other South African artists such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Miriam Makeba, Ray Phiri, and other elements of the band Kalahari, with which Masekela recorded in the 1980s. He also collaborated in the musical development for the Broadway play, Sarafina! and recorded with the band Kalahari.

In 2003, he was featured in the documentary film Amandla!: A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony. In 2004, he released his autobiography, Still Grazing: The Musical Journey of Hugh Masekela, co-authored with journalist D. Michael Cheers, which detailed Masekela's struggles against apartheid in his homeland, as well as his personal struggles with alcoholism from the late 1970s through to the 1990s. In this period, he migrated, in his personal recording career, to mbaqanga, jazz/funk, and the blending of South African sounds, through two albums he recorded with Herb Alpert, and solo recordings, Techno-Bush (recorded in his studio in Botswana), Tomorrow (featuring the anthem "Bring Him Back Home"), Uptownship (a lush-sounding ode to American R&B), Beatin' Aroun de Bush, Sixty, Time, and Revival. His song "Soweto Blues", sung by his former wife, Miriam Makeba, is a blues/jazz piece that mourns the carnage of the Soweto riots in 1976. He also provided interpretations of songs composed by Jorge Ben, Antônio Carlos Jobim, Caiphus Semenya, Jonas Gwangwa, Dorothy Masuka and Fela Kuti.

In 2006 Masekela was described by Michael A. Gomez, professor of history and Middle Eastern and Islamic studies at New York University as "the father of South African jazz."

In 2009, Masekela released the album Phola (meaning "to get well, to heal"), his second recording for 4 Quarters Entertainment/Times Square Records. It includes some songs he wrote in the 1980s but never completed, as well as a reinterpretation of "The Joke of Life (Brinca de Vivre)", which he recorded in the mid-1980s. From October 2007, he was a board member of the Woyome Foundation for Africa.

In 2010, Masekela was featured, with his son Selema Masekela, in a series of videos on ESPN. The series, called Umlando – Through My Father's Eyes, was aired in 10 parts during ESPN's coverage of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The series focused on Hugh's and Selema's travels through South Africa. Hugh brought his son to the places he grew up. It was Selema's first trip to his father's homeland.

On 3 December 2013, Masekela guested with the Dave Matthews Band in Johannesburg, South Africa. He joined Rashawn Ross on trumpet for "Proudest Monkey" and "Grazing in the Grass".

In 2016, at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, Masekela and Abdullah Ibrahim performed together for the first time in 60 years, reuniting the Jazz Epistles in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the historic 16 June 1976 youth demonstrations.

Social initiatives

Masekela was involved in several social initiatives, and served as a director on the board of the Lunchbox Fund, a non-profit organization that provides a daily meal to students of township schools in Soweto.

Personal life and death

From 1964 to 1966 he was married to singer and activist Miriam Makeba. He was the father of American television host Sal Masekela.

Masekela died in Johannesburg on the early morning of 23 January 2018 from prostate cancer, aged 78.

Awards and honours

Grammy history

Masekela was nominated for a Grammy Award three times, including a nomination for Best World Music Album for his 2012 album Jabulani, one for Best Musical Cast Show Album for Sarafina! The Music Of Liberation (1989) and one for Best Contemporary Pop Performance for "Grazing in the Grass" (1968).

Honours

Rhodes University: Doctor of Music (honoris causa), 2015

University of York Honorary Doctorate in Music 2014

Order of Ikhamanga: 2010 South African National Orders Ceremony, 27 April 2010.

Ghana Music Awards: 2007 African Music Legend award

2005 Channel O Music Video Awards: Lifetime Achievement Award

2002 BBC Radio Jazz Awards: International Award of the Year

Nominated for Broadway's 1988 Tony Award for Best Score (Musical), with music and lyrics collaborator Mbongeni Ngema, for Sarafina!

2016 MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMAs): Legend Award

Wikipedia

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[TASK 078: ZIMBABWE]

In celebration of Black History Month, here’s a masterlist below compiled of over 290+ Zimbabwean faceclaims categorised by gender with their occupation and ethnicity denoted if there was a reliable source. If you want an extra challenge use random.org to pick a random number! Of course everything listed below are just suggestions and you can pick whichever character or whichever project you desire.

Any questions can be sent here and all tutorials have been linked below the cut for ease of access! REMEMBER to tag your resources with #TASKSWEEKLY and we will reblog them onto the main! This task can be tagged with whatever you want but if you want us to see it please be sure that our tag is the first five tags, @ mention us or send us a messaging linking us to your post!

THE TASK - scroll down for FC’s!

STEP 1: Decide on a FC you wish to create resources for! You can always do more than one but who are you starting with? There are links to masterlists you can use in order to find them and if you want help, just send us a message and we can pick one for you at random!

STEP 2: Pick what you want to create! You can obviously do more than one thing, but what do you want to start off with? Screencaps, RP icons, GIF packs, masterlists, PNG’s, fancasts, alternative FC’s - LITERALLY anything you desire!

STEP 3: Look back on tasks that we have created previously for tutorials on the thing you are creating unless you have whatever it is you are doing mastered - then of course feel free to just get on and do it. :)

STEP 4: Upload and tag with #TASKSWEEKLY! If you didn’t use your own screencaps/images make sure to credit where you got them from as we will not reblog packs which do not credit caps or original gifs from the original maker.

THINGS YOU CAN MAKE FOR THIS TASK -  examples are linked!

Stumped for ideas? Maybe make a masterlist or graphic of your favourite faceclaims. A masterlist of names. Plot ideas or screencaps from a music video preformed by an artist. Masterlist of quotes and lyrics that can be used for starters, thread titles or tags. Guides on culture and customs.

Screencaps

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and whatever else you can think of / make!

MASTERLIST!

F:

Dorothy Masuka (1935) Zimbabwean - singer.

Stella Chiweshe (1946) Zimbabwean - musician.

Sekai Nzenza-Shand (1959) Zimbabwean - writer.

Busi Ncube (1963) Zimbabwean - singer.

Rozalla Miller / Rozalla (1964) Zambian, Zimbabwean - dancer.

Leonard Zhakata (1968) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter and dancer.

Masasa Moyo (1970) Zimbabwean / Irish, German - actress.

Eska Mtungwazi / Eska (1971) Zimbabwean - musician.

Shingisai Suluma (1971) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Petina Gappah (1971) Zimbabwean - author.

Thandie Newton (1972) Zimbabwean / English - actress.

Maggie Lloyd Williams (1975) Zimbabwean - actress.

Ivy Kombo (1975) Zimbabwean - gospel artist.

Anna Mudeka (1976) Zimbabwean - musician.

Chipo Chung (1977) Zimbabwean / Chinese - actress and activist.

Danai Gurira (1978) Zimbabwean - actress and playwright.

Kudzai Sevenzo (1979) Zimbabwean - actress and musician.

Edith WeUtonga (1979) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinopona Katsande / Tin Tin (1979) Zimbabwean - actress, radio and television personality.

Jamelia Niela Davis / Jamelia (1981) Zimbabwean / Jamaican - actress and recording artist.

Shingai Shoniwa (1981) Zimbabwean - musician.

Fungisai Zvakavapano Mashavave (1981) Zimbabwean - musician.

Pauline Kamusewu / Pauline (1982) Zimbabwean / Italian - singer.

Mathira Mohammad / Mathira (1982) Zimbabwean / Pakistani - model, actress, singer, dancer, and hostess.

Lucia Evans (1982) Zimbabwean, Irish - singer.

Cynthia Muvirimi (1983) Zimbabwean - model.

Caroline Marufu (1983) Zimbabwean - Miss Zimbabwe World 2007.

Selmor Mtukudzi (1983) Zimbabwean - musician.

DJ Zinhle (1983) Zimbabwean - musician.

Natalie Gumede (1984) Zimbabwean - actress.

Velile Tshabalala (1984) Zimbabwean - actress.

Barbara Mamabolo (1985) Zimbabwean - actress and singer.

Prudence Mabhena (1986) Zimbabwean - singer.

Ropa Garise (1986) Zimbabwean - model.

Tarisai Vushe (1987) Zimbabwean - singer.

Vimbai Mutinhiri (1987) Zimbabwean - actress, model and television personality.

Taps Mugadza (1988) Zimbabwean - singer.

Chenegeto Brown (1988) Zimbabwean - musician.

Ruvheneko Parirenyatwa (1988) Zimbabwean - radio personality.

Silibaziso Dube / Sli Dube (1989) Zimbabwean - model.

Sibongile Mlambo (1990) Zimbabwean - actress and model.

Ericah Sabi / Empress Massina (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Alexandra Govere / Andra (1990) Zimbabwean, Unspecified Native American, French - singer-songwriter, producer, reality tv personality, gymnast, and journalist.

Mimi Ndiweni (1991) Zimbabwean - actress.

Sandra Muchaneta Gazi / Lady Squanda  (1991) Zimbabwean - actress.

Kristine Musademba (1992) Zimbabwean / Filipina - ice skater.

Moe Makaya (1992) Zimbabwean - model.

Letwin Tatenda Tiwaringe (1992) Zimbabwean - model.

Shalvin Kundai Chakwada / Empress Shelly (1992) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinashe Kachingwe / Tinashe (1993) Zimbabwean / Irish, Norwegian, Danish, English - singer, dancer, actress and director.

Lynette Lisa Musenyi / Bounty Lisa (1993) Zimbabwean - musician.

Scola Dondo / Strawberry Ripples Let's Get Healthy  (1995) Zimbabwean - youtuber.

Tkay Maidza (1996) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Thando Sikwila (?) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter and actress.

Yolanda Yona (?) Zimbabwean - model and beauty pageant contestant.

Catherine Makaya (?) Zimbabwean - model and beauty pageant contestant.

Charity Zisengwe (?) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Nyasha Matonhodze (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Carol Mujokoro (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Michelle Wallace (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Violet Makunike / Viomak (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tholakele Dlamini (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Sibo Bero (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Hannah Chikosi-Mapepeta (?) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Rosanna Hall (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Teurai Chanakira (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Olivia Charamba / Mai Charamba (?) Zimbabwean -

RuTendo DeNise (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Sophia Leonie (?) Zimbabwean / English, German - actress.

Charmaine Bingwa (?) Zimbabwean - actress.

Chiedza Mhende (?) Zimbabwean - actress.

Portia Gwanzura (?) Zimbabwean - singer.

Ginny Holder (?) Zimbabwean - actress.

Melissa Mashiki (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Pokello Nare (?) Zimbabwean - reality star.

Ammara Brown (?) Zimbabwean - musician and actress.

Hope Masike (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

King Lo / Locnation (?) Zimbabwean - producer.

Mbo Mahocs (?) Zimbabwean - socialite.

Candice Mwakalyelye (?) Zimbabwean - radio personality.

Daruler / Mambokadzi (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Nonku Vundla / Black Bird (?) Zimbabwean - rapper.

Kimberley Robinson (?) Zimbabwean  - model.

Greatmore Chatya (?) Zimbabwean  - model.

Rachel Stuart (?) Zimbabwean  - model.

Nicole Ncube (?) Zimbabwean  - model.

Natasha Ndlovu (?) Zimbabwean  - model.

Petronella Tayamika Mahachi / Taya (?) Zimbabwean  - fashion designer.

Nomathamsanqa Mkwananzi / Nkwali (?) Zimbabwean  - fashion designer.

Pah Chihera (?) Zimbabwean  - model.

Linda Gabriel (?) Zimbabwean  - poet.

Namatai Mubariki (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Bethany Pasinawako-Ngolomi (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Chiedza Babra Maswera / Blacperl (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Bonnie Deuschle (?) Zimbabwean  - musician and author.

Dorothy Karengo / Darula (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Tariro Kadandara / Queen Kadjah (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Everjoy Takudzwa Kawadza / Eve Kawadza (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Edeline Mapuranga / Juwela (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

Lady Storm (?) Zimbabwean  - musician.

M:

Joseph Magundwane / Mechanic Manyeruke (1942)

Thomas Mapfumo (1945) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Sam Mangwana (1945) Zimbabwean / Angolan - musician.

Dominic Kanaventi (1950) Zimbabwean - actor.

Oliver Mtukudzi / Tuku (1952) Zimbabwean - guitarist.

Cosmas Magaya (1953) Zimbabwean - mbira player.

Lovemore Majaivana (1954) Zimbabwean - musician.

Jonathan Wutawunashe (1955) Zimbabwean - keyboardist, guitarist, and songwriter.

Bob Nyabinde (1955) Zimbabwean - musician.

Zeke Manyika (1955) Zimbabwean - drummer and singer-songwriter.

Louis Mhlanga (1956) Zimbabwean - guitarist, singer, and producer.

Solomon Skuza (1956) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tendayi Gahamadze (1959) Zimbabwean - mbira player and songwriter.

Peter Muparutsa (1959) Zimbabwean - musician.

Garikayi Tirikoti (1961) Zimbabwean - mbira player.

Keith Thompson (1962) Zimbabwean - musician.

Chirikure Chirikure (1962) Zimbabwean - songwriter, poet, and writer.

Albert Nyathi (1962) Zimbabwean - poet.

Forward Kwenda (1963) Zimbabwean - mbira player.

Alick Macheso (1968) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter, guitarist, bassist, and dancer.

Leonard Zhakata (1968) Zimbabwean - musician.

Calvin Gudu (1968) Zimbabwean - musician.

Josphat Somanje (1968) Zimbabwean - musician.

Edgar Langeveldt (1969) Zimbabwean - actor, singer-songwriter, and comedian.

Charles Mudede (1969) Zimbabwean - filmmaker.

Musekiwa Chingodza (1970) Zimbabwean - mbira and marimba player.

Clive Mukundu (1970) Zimbabwean - musician.

Christopher Mlalazi (1970) Zimbabwean - writer.

Daniel Dumile / MF Doom (1971) Zimbabwean / Trinidadian - recording artist and producer.

Connie M’Gadzah (1971) Zimbabwean - actor.

Ignatius Mabasa (1971) Zimbabwean - musician, writer, and storyteller.

Willbroad Muponda / Willom Tight (1971) Zimbabwean - musician.

Charles Charamba (1971) Zimbabwean - musician and songwriter.

Allan Chimbetu (1972) Zimbabwean - musician.

Brian Chikwava (1972) Zimbabwean - musician and writer.

Sabhuku Vharazipi / David Mubaiwa (1973) Zimbabwean = socialite, actor, writer and comedian.

Herbert Schwamborn (1973) Zimbabwean / German - producer and rapper.

Victor Kunonga (1974) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Sean Fletcher (1974) Zimbabwean / English - journalist and radio personality.

Ramadu (1975) Zimbabwean - musician.

Togara Muzanenhamo (1975) Zimbabwean - poet.

Adam Croasdell (1976) Zimbabwean - actor.

Audius Mtawarira (1977) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Progress Chipfumo (1977) Zimbabwean - singer and guitarist.

Alexio Kawara (1978) Zimbabwean - musician.

Blessing Shumba (1978) Zimbabwean - musician.

Dino Mudondo (1978) Zimbabwean - musician.

David Chifunyise / D-va (1979) Zimbabwean - musician and songwriter.

Leroy Gopal (1979) Zimbabwean - actor.

Buffalo Souljah (1980) Zimbabwean - musician and songwriter.

Alishias Musimbe / Maskiri (1980) Zimbabwean - rapper.

Obi Mhondera (1980) Zimbabwean - songwriter and producer.

Desmond Chideme / Stunner (1980) Zimbabwean - musician.

Nyasha Hatendi (1981) Zimbabwean - actor and producer.

Tongayi Chirisa (1981) Zimbabwean - actor and musician.

Peter Mujuru / Mashasha (1982) Zimbabwean - guitarist, bassist, percussionist, singer-songwriter, and producer.

Sulumani Chimbetu (1982) Zimbabwean - musician.

M. K. Asante (1982) Zimbabwean - author, filmmaker, recording artist, and professor.

Eric Moyo (1982) Zimbabwean - singer.

Lamont Chitepo (1982) Zimbabwean - musician.

Ngonidzashe Kambarami / Ngonie (1983) Zimbabwean - singer, guitarist, keyboardist, and drummer.

Dereck Chisora (1983) Zimbabwean - boxer.

Ngoni Kambarami (1983) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tawanda Sibotshiwe / Jusa Dementor (1983) Zimbabwean - musician and producer.

Winky D (1983) Zimbabwean - musician.

Leonard Mapfumo (1983) Zimbabwean - rapper.

Michael Mahendere / Mic Inity (1983) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinashe Fazakerley / Rationale (1984) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Mkhululi Bhebhe (1984) Zimbabwean - singer.

Shingirai Kaserera / Sugaspott (1984) Zimbabwean - rapper.

Flint Bedrock (1985) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Desire Sibanda / Dizzy Dee (1985) Zimbabwean - musician.

Sanii Makhalima (1985) Zimbabwean - musician.

Rockford Josphat (1985) Zimbabwean - musician.

Simbarashe Muswere / Mystik Becyad (1985) Zimbabwean - musician.

Munya Chidzonga (1985) Zimbabwean - actor and filmmaker.

Tehn Diamond (1985) Zimbabwean - rapper and singer-songwriter.

Rockford Josphat / Roki (1985) Zimbabwean, Malagasy - singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor.

Terrence Kudakwashe Tichapondwa / Tryt (1986) Zimbabwean - musician.

Radzi Chinyanganya (1986) Zimbabwean / Scottish - presenter.

Rudi Schwamborn / Carlprit (1986) Zimbabwean / German - rapper.

Jah Prayzah (1987) Zimbabwean - musician.

Mukudzeyi Mukombe (1987) Zimbabwean - musician.

Abraham Wilson (1987) Zimbabwean - musician.

Martin Tawanda Gosha / Kazmik Chamakanda (1988) Zimbabwean - musician.

Pacharo Mzembe (1988) Zimbabwean - actor.

Biggie Tembo Jr. (1988) Zimbabwean - musician.

Mathias Mhere (1988) Zimbabwean - musician.

Energy Sylvester Chizanga / Free,am (1988) Zimbabwean - musician.

Prince Kudakwashe Musarurwa (1988) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Tendekai Philemon Tati / Madzitatiguru (1989) Zimbabwean - spoken word artist, slam poet, writer, and comedian.

Gerald Masanga / Jerry B (1989) Zimbabwean - musician.

Alfred Nenguwo (1989) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Regé-Jean Page (1990) Zimbabwean - actor.

Emmanuel Manyeruke / Guspy Warrior (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Nyabulo Mayibongwe Nkomo (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Kelvin Kusikwenyu / Killer T (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Wilton Isheasnesu Doba / Legion (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Elisha Matarirano / Legend Elly (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinashe Gamure Munengami /Cello Culture (1990) Zimbabwean - musician.

Nib Crouch (1991) Zimbabwean - rapper.

Phillip Kembo (1991) Zimbabwean - producer.

Brian Soko (1991) Zimbabwean - songwriter and producer.

Tafadzwa Mwandira / Celscius (1991) Zimbabwean - musician.

Lovejoy Matare / L kat (1991) Zimbabwean - rapper and lyricist.

Matthew C. Martino (1992) Zimbabwean - actor and producer.

Obey Makamure / Tocky Vibes (1993) Zimbabwean - musician and songwriter.

Darlington Zhanje / Dhadza D (1993) Zimbabwean - musician.

Maligakini Saizi / Kinnah (1993) Zimbabwean - musician.

Gary Tight (1994) Zimbabwean - musician.

Godknows Shumba / Magical (1994) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinotenda Chitapa (1995) Zimbabwean - musician.

Kelvin Jones (1995) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.

Gift Lihlohonolo Ndlovu (1996) Zimbabwean - musician.

Takura Chiwoniso / Blot (1996) Zimbabwean - musician.

McDon Vladmire Woodburn / Mcy Ghost (1998) Zimbabwean - musician.

Fisher Masango (?) Zimbabwean - model.

Alton Edwards (?) Zimbabwean, British - singer.

Zuva Martens (?) Zimbabwean / Dutch - actor and comedian.

Mathias Muzaza (?) Zimbabwean - singer and percussionist (Mokoomba).

Trustworth Samende (?) Zimbabwean - singer and guitarist (Mokoomba).

Abundance Mutori (?) Zimbabwean - singer and bassist (Mokoomba).

Ndaba Coster Moyo (?) Zimbabwean - singer and drummer (Mokoomba).

Miti Mugande (?) Zimbabwean - singer and percussionist (Mokoomba).

Donald Moyo (?) Zimbabwean - singer and keyboardist (Mokoomba).

Kwayedza Kureya / Kwaye (?) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Tiwai Muza (?) Zimbabwean - actor.

Rise Kagonaa (?) Zimbabwean - guitarist.

Takura Tendayi / Takura (?) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter.

Kenny Chitsvatsva (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Shakespeare "Shakie" Kangwena (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Chartwell Dutiro (?) Zimbabwean - mbira player.

Kudaushe Matimba (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tendayi Jembere (?) Zimbabwean - actor.

Steve Makoni (?) Zimbabwean - guitarist, songwriter, and comedian.

Kwasi Songui (?) Zimbabwean - actor.

Mr. Lion / Gazzully (?) Zimbabwean - DJ.

Clemmence Rice (?) Zimbabwean - bass mbira player (Mbira dzeNharira).

Chaka Chakandika (?) Zimbabwean - kalimba player (Mbira dzeNharira).

Takawira Devera (?) Zimbabwean - lead mbira player (Mbira dzeNharira).

Tendai Kazuru (?) Zimbabwean - hosho player (Mbira dzeNharira).

Mudiwa Hood (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Douglas Vambe (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Ngugi Vere (?) Zimbabwean - fashion designer.

Enock Munhenga / ExQ (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Syfo fame (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Clyde Macathur Chirikure / Clyde Banks (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

T Makwikwi (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Antony Munetsi Matambanadzo / mUnetsi (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Lloyd Charles Muponda / King Labash (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tawanda Zarzu Tichareva (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinashe Makura (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Kudzayi Mhlanga (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Thembani Mubochwa (?) Zimbabwean - fashion designer.

Ara Kani (?) Zimbabwean - fashion designer.

Doc Vikela (?) Zimbabwean - comedian.

Calvin / Cal_Vin (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Michael Kudakwashe (?) Zimbabwean - actor and comedian.

Muzi Mangena (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Dumi Maraire Jr / Draze (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Zadzisai Chikwanyanga / G.I.L (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Ian Makiwa / Platinum Prince (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Nicholas Muchinguri / POY (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Sam Dondo (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tinashe Gonzara / Ti Gonzi (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Trevor Dongo (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Blessed Zikhali / 8L (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Willis Afrika Wataffi  (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Baba Harare (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Newton Gwanangura / Badman (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Albert Mushore / Boom Beto (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Brian Sibalo (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Calisto Nyamhute (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Calvin Malunga / Crystal (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Daniel Mazhindu / Decibel (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Delani Makhalima (?) Zimbabwean - musician and producer.

Dereck Mpofu (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Tamuka Mponda-Makuluni / DJ Tamuka (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Dumalisile Mehlomakhulu (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Douglas Chimbetu (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Fungai Paradzayi / Fun F (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Resilience Chekera / GZE (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Bessel Mugo Parewa / Hwindi Prezident (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Jah Child (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Jah Designer (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Jah Signal (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Jeremy Olivier (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Jonah Moyo (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Josh Kawara / Josh Kays (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Shadreck Kwarire (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Kireni Zulu (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Achieve Moyo / Krimz Beatz (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Lucky Kumene (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Shelton Tutani / Maggikal (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Ephraim Mushore / Lyrical Editor / Major E (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Masta Reins (?) Zimbabwean - musician.

Problematic:

Dizzy Dee (1985) Zimbabwean - singer-songwriter and DJ - convicted of rape.

Soul Jah Love (1989) Zimbabwean - assaulted wife.

Washington Kavhai (?) Zimbabwean - musician - convicted of rape.

Tawanda Manyimo (?) Zimbabwean - actor - played a Japanese character in Ghost In The Shell when he is not Japanese.

[formandtone]

Self-titled: Miriam Makeba 60 years later

Miriam Makeba’s voice is so distinct you cannot miss it. Having been one of the few of her generation to gain fame and sustain her career for five decades, it’s hard not to identify the lilt in her inflections. Makeba is one of those who mastered the art of altering her tone with finesse, moving through phrases in soft and sharp tones breathing life to lyrics. The film adaptation of Chimamanda Adichie’s novel, Half of A Yellow Sun opens with the song “The Naughty Little Flea”. “The Naughty Little Flea” has a Calypsonian rhythm with vocals gliding delicately over the instrumental accompaniment. It’s these vocals that give Makeba away. I looked this song up and it led me to her self-titled album which launched her as an international this week 60 years ago. 

Makeba was already a household name in the South African jazz scene having sung with The Cuban Brothers and The Manhattan Brothers in the early 1950s. She also founded the female jazz group The Skylarks in 1955 who are known for songs like Hamba Bhekile. Stints in these groups and a theatre role as Joyce in Todd Matshikiza’s King Kong ultimately lead to a solo career with the debut of Miriam Makeba released under RCA Victor on 11 May 1960. 

The prominence of Calypso and Marabi (and sometimes the merger of the two) here likely speaks to the rise in Calypsonian music beyond the Carribean by way of the likes of Harry Belafonte. Makeba was taking up space on the mainstream music trend at the time while also putting local South African music on the map. Both genres grew out of a need black people had to create a vibrant culture in the middle of brutality. Staurt Hall’s article on Calypso and the Carribean diaspora in Britain traces the genre’s roots to pre-Easter weekend celebrations by enslaved people all the way to Carnival and across the Atlantic to the West Indies historic cricket win at Lords in England. Marabi was born from the townships that mushroomed in the early to mid-20th century. Artists began creating a sound that was a mash up of ragtime, swing, isicathamiya and jazz to create a sound that represented the flare and vibrance of lives black people led even in the midst of forced removals. The external American influences from which South Africans drew, make their way into this album in the form of “Where Does It Lead”, “House of The Rising Sun” and “One More Dance”.

Throughout the album is an air of nostalgia for black South African life especially the good parts. This may be tied to Makeba’s somewhat forced exile after the revocation of her passport in the same year. I consider this work crucial in piecing together South African history because we do not often here women’s voices. Makeba may have been pigeon-holed as the voice of black South Africa in regard to the fight against apartheid, but her voice as a witness to black society in general is not taken as seriously as we think. There is very little reflection on how she and Dorothy Masuka helped feminise the phenomenon of migrant labour in South Africa. Miriam Makeba opens with “Jikel’ Emaweni” (Retreat Song) originally sung by her bandmates, The Manhattan Brothers as song that conjures images of men dancing and engaged in stick fighting. Makeba’s Mbube recalls a drunken night most probably at a shebeen drawing from the culture of beer brewing for which black women in Johannesburg’s townships were known. Beer brewing was considered an illegal act for which Makeba’s own mother had been arrested. The image of a woman describing how very inebriated she had become after consuming copious amounts of alcohol can be seen as Makeba’s disruption of gender expectations. And she is not the only one. Dorothy Masuka’s use of tsotsi taal in interludes between songs brings to the fore the often ignored narratives of street smart black women. It is a strange act of erasure given that beer-brewing tavern-owning women must have been some of the toughest business people around.

You also cannot listen to “Mbube” without reflecting on the unjust history of Solomon Linda as it pertains to writing credits and royalties. Linda is considered one of the important proponents of Doo Wop and isicathamiya who composed “Mbube’s” melody for his group the Original Evening Birds. Mbube was duped to signing away his rights unaware of how little he was to benefit from his world famous composition- a mere 10 shillings. Further “compensation” was a job sweeping and serving tea at Gallo Studio’’s packing house, as Lydia Hutchinsion writes. Linda died in 1962 with only $22 in his bank account while the record company earned thousands in royalties. His family only started earning royalties in 2006.

There are also hints of the brutal particularly in the song “Lakutshon Ilanga” (another song originally sung by the Manhattan Brothers). Perhaps I am imposing this on the work by virtue of the history of which we are all aware. But by the time the album debuted, Sophiatown had already been destroyed. Apartheid’s Group Areas Act ensured the distruction of a cultural hub as important as the Harlem Rennaissance by forcibly removing black people from this suburb. “Lakutshon’ Ilanga” may be a love song but it's very likely that the story of a person searching for their loved one even as far as searching in the prisons, references mass arrests taking place at the height of the Defiance Campaign between 1952 and 1960. Even the Malaysian lullaby “Suliram” speaks to her awareness of South Africa’s slave history reminding all of us to think of our history in its entirety, not leaving out the descendants of enslaved South Asian people. 

Her follow up albums like An Evening with Belafonte and Makeba released in 1965 see a Makeba who fully unmasks her political consciousness. There she pays tribute to political activists incarcerated on Robben Island, those who have been executed by the state and those who have gone for military training to liberate the country.  

For now her focus on centering the every day, for those of us recalling this work reminds us that black people are more than just the injustices meted against them. In the midst of an unjust system are people living full lives. 

This album is a beautiful display of Makeba’s versatility as a vocalist. The ability to sing life into lyrics, capturing the comical and the painful, is rare. Makeba creates images of a glorious cultural moment. Sophiatown may have been torn down but Makeba rebuilds it from the ground up in her larynx. Her percussive singing and the way her syncopated vocals fall between the instrumental accompaniment in order to create images of 1950s Johannesburg is mind blowing. She sings a reality she has lived and that’s why this album pierces the soul. The considered phrasing in songs throughout is a display of an artist raised on a diet of sublime musicianship which continues to be studied by some of today’s stunning jazz musicians. It’s the reason these songs refuse to be forgotten even if they are not celebrated as often as they deserve.   

[2nacheki]

Welcome to 2nacheki's Africa Year in review and in today's video 2nacheki looks back at some of the figures on the African continent who we said farewell to us this year. Here are the Top 10 Notable African Deaths of 2019 1 Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe's first post-independence leader, 95 This pan Africanist leader who ended white-minority rule in Zimbabwe died in a hospital in Singapore. He remained a revolutionary hero who stood up to Western imperialism, but others criticized his violent repression of political opponents. 2 Urine Mrwetyana, South African university student, 19 The rape and murder of this young African woman in Cape Town sparked large protests over the high levels of violence against women in South Africa. Thankfully Her killer was later caught and given three life sentences. 3 Mohammed Morsi, ex-president of Egypt, 67 Egypts first democratically elected leader, he was ousted by the military in 2013 after one year in office. A top figure in the now-banned Islamist movement Muslim Brotherhood, he was on trial for espionage when he collapsed in a courtroom and died. 4 Dorothy Masuka, Zimbabwean-born South African jazz singer, 83: One of the most famous African singers in 1950s South Africa, she wrote some of the biggest hits of that decade. She also dared to write political songs about the death in 1961 of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, she was exiled for more than 30 years 5 Beji Caid Essebsi, Tunisia's president, 92 Beji was the world's oldest sitting president when he died, having been seen by his supporters as a safe pair of hands who maintained Tunisia's strong secular tradition. He served under two autocratic rulers before becoming the North African state's first freely elected president in 2014 6 Hodan Nalayeh, Somali journalist, 43 A personal friend of 2naheki Nalayeh died in an attack by militants on a hotel in Kismayo. Having grown up in Canada, Nalayeh returned to Somalia last year determined to show its positive side through Integration TV, her online platform aimed at the Somali community in Canada and the wider Somali diaspora. 7 Bob Collymore, Kenyan-based businessman, 61 The Guyana-born Kenyan immigrant was the chief executive of one East Africa's most successful companies, Safaricom, which pioneered M-Pesa - the mobile phone service that allows those without a bank account to transfer funds by sending a text message. 8 DJ Arafat, Ivorian singer, 33 The king of coupé-décalé dance music and one of his biggest Musicians in Africa died after a motorbike accident. He symbolized the flashy well-dressed lifestyle associated with West African music. 9 Reginald Mengi, Tanzanian media mogul, 75: The late Mengi made his wealth Through his manufacturing, mining and media company IPP Group, he owned newspapers and radio and TV stations. In 2014, Forbes estimated his wealth at $560m (£430m). The origins of his business empire were in a ball-point pen assembly plant 10 Binyavanga Wainaina, Kenyan writer, 48 The late Wainaina won the Caine Prize for African writing in 2002 and was best known around the world for his satirical essay on How to Write About Africa. You can support 2nacheki on Patreon here https://ift.tt/2OaL7gA -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- Thanks for watching 2nacheki the biggest African channel on Youtube from #Africa . All our videos are aimed at Educating, Informing, Reporting, Reviewing, Criticizing & Ranking everything #African. Our content includes: #africanews #africalist #Africanpopculture #Africaentertainment #Afrcicanmusic #Africanculture #Africainterviews #AfricaSpeeches #Africanpolitics & #Panafricanism -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- Email us 2nacheki@gmail.com for News Tips, content submission, ads partnership, collabos, sponsorship or content issues. -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- Africa is watching i.e #Algeria #Angol #Benin #Botswana #BurkinaFaso #Burundi #CapeVerde #Cameroon #CentralAfricanRepublic #CAR #Chad #Comoros #DRCongo #Congo #IvoryCoast #Djibouti #Egypt #EquatorialGuinea #Eritrea #Eswatini #Swaziland #Ethiopia #Gabon #Gambia #Ghana #Guinea #GuineaBissau #Kenya #Lesotho #Liberia #Libya #Madagascar #Malawi #Mali #Mauritania #Mauritius #Morocco #Mozambique #Namibia #Niger #Nigeria #Rwanda #SaoTomePrincipe #Senegal #Seychelles #SierraLeone #Somalia #SouthAfrica #SouthSudan #Sudan #Tanzania #Togo #Tunisia #Uganda #Zambia #Zimbabwe #AfricaUnion #AU -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- We have written permission to use the majority of content found on this channel by the content owners themselves and do not infringe on any copyrighted content knowingly. As for the other content on this channel we assure you it is strictly only used under Fair Use. Please email us first for any takedowns, credit or removal of your content at 2nacheki@gmail.com -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- Copyright Disclaimer: Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for fair use for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. by 2nacheki

[suzybellwriter]

R.I.P. beautiful songbird South African legend, the wonderful Dorothy Masuka. 💔 #africanlegend #africansinger #madorothy #femaleicon #femalemusician #dorothymasuka #Repost @zolani with @get_repost Now and again in this industry I come across artists who have made a real impact in my formative years ... as a child and as a young artist. To find that when you meet such a person they are full of grace and full of the love of music and her people still. Willing to share and to encourage. Magical. Warm. Rest In Peace Ma Dorothy. You are loved and appreciated. Hamba kahle mkhonto wesizwe ❤️ #ripdorothymasuka 📸 @etched_space https://www.instagram.com/p/BuRpjkoBCgD/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=125mbtswirrwg