Jonas Gwangwa, South African Jazz Legend, is Dead

South African jazz musician and activist, Jonas Gwangwa, whose music powered the anti-apartheid struggle, has died at the age of 83.

His death was announced in a statement on the country’s official presidential website.

In the statement, Cyril Ramaphosa, South African president said: “A giant of our revolutionary cultural movement and our democratic creative industries has been called to rest. 

“The trombone that boomed with boldness and bravery, and equally warmed our hearts with mellow melody has lost its life force.

“He delighted audiences in Sophiatown until it became illegal for black people to congregate and South African musicians were jailed merely for practicing their craft.

“Jonas Gwanga ascends to our great orchestra of musical ancestors whose creative genius and dedication to the freedom of all South Africans inspired millions in our country and mobilised the international community against the apartheid system.

“As we mourn the loss of many precious lives around us, we pray also that the soul of Jonas Gwangwa will rest in peace.”

Born in October 1937 in Soweto, Gwangwa became a founding member of the pivotal South African group “The Jazz Epistles”, in the late 50s.

The music icon was nominated for an Oscar for the theme song of the 1987 film, Cry Freedom. He was also awarded the “Order of Ikhamanga”, South Africa’s highest national award presented for achievements in art and culture, in 2010.