@HUGH MASEKELA...Hugh Masekela was a legendary South African trumpeter, composer, and activist, often referred to as "the father of South African jazz". He was born on April 4, 1939, in Witbank, South Africa, and developed a passion for music at a young age. Inspired by American jazz musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Clifford Brown, he took up the trumpet and became a pioneer in blending Afropop, jazz, and mbaqanga. Masekela was deeply involved in the fight against apartheid, using his music to highlight the struggles of South Africans. His song "Bring Him Back Home" became an anthem for Nelson Mandela's release. He spent 30 years in exile, living in the United States, Europe, and Africa, where he collaborated with artists like Miriam Makeba, Fela Kuti, and Paul Simon.