Hugh Masekela’s final resting place
Media was barred from the funeral
Music legend Hugh Masekala was buried at Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg yesterday.
Masekela died last Tuesday at the age of 78 following a lengthy battle with prostate cancer.
The funeral service started in the morning at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens in Emmarentia, before proceeding to the nearby cemetery.
Only family members and close friends were allowed at the funeral. Masekela’s family said the internationally acclaimed trumpeter requested a private funeral.
Members of the media were barred from attending the funeral and taking pictures.
There was a tight security presence with mourners allowed access only if they were wearing a white wristband before entering the venue.
A huge marquee was erected at the Botanical Gardens where guests dressed mostly in black were seen arriving. Special guests included close family friend and Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor, who gave a tribute.
Musical items were rendered by legendary musician and friend Sibongile Khumalo, Simphiwe Dana, Zoe Modiga and award-winning author Zakes Mda, who gave a moving tribute to the star.
Deejay Black Coffee posted the funeral programme on his Twitter page. Masekela’s seminal 1968 hit
Grazin’ in the Grass was performed by his band.
A tribute by the president of Ghana Nana Akufo Ado was also listed on the programme. Masekela was a guest at Ado’s inauguration last January.
A cultural ritual was performed at the end of the programme.
Masekela’s final resting place is alongside struggle stalwarts Keorapetse Kgosietsile and Ahmed Kathrada.