I spent the last evening of my weekend—Sunday, 12 April 2026—doing something really special. I went to Joburg Theatre, with my parents right by my side, ready for a big night that promised good music and memories. We were there for a tribute concert celebrating the life of the legendary Jazz icon Hugh Masekela—or Bra Hugh, as so many of us fondly know him. As our tickets were scanned and we were about to enter the auditorium, it was clear it was gonna go down! In collaboration with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation, the show was part of an intimate four-day run. It celebrated a man whose trumpet did not just make music, but told stories—stories of struggle, joy, resistance, and unity that travelled far beyond South Africa. Built around the theme “From the Soil to the World,” the tribute honoured Bra Hugh not only as a global icon, but as a teacher and visionary whose Pan-African spirit continues to shape generations of artists. A view of the stage setup, with the band performing and images of Hugh Masekela displayed on screen. Picture: Author’s Own A sold-out night of Jazz and unity As we settled into our seats inside the auditorium, there was this undeniable buzz in the air. People were not just excited, they were ready. Ready to celebrate, ready to feel, and most importantly… ready to dance. And the best part? It was a completely sold-out show. Every seat filled, every corner alive with anticipation. Now, I will be honest—I was not there because I’m the biggest fan of Bra Hugh Masekela himself, but because I am a huge lover of jazz. And wow… jazz does something to me. I can’t even fully explain it, but it takes me somewhere else—like it reaches deep into my soul and fills spaces I did not even know needed healing. But do you know what truly moved me? Looking around and seeing everyone. People from different races—Black, white, coloured, Indian—different ages, even little kids, all gathered in one space, sharing one energy, one heartbeat. It honestly made me emotional. In that moment, I saw the true power of music—how it brings people together in a way nothing else can. We were all there because of Bra Hugh, and it hit me that his mission is still alive, still working, still uniting people… even now. And just as that feeling settled in, the stage came to life. The band walked on, and without saying a word, the music began—pure, rich jazz that instantly set the tone for the night. Behind them, black-and-white images of Bra Hugh played on the screen, almost like he was right there with us, watching it all unfold. Musical director and conductor Sydney Mavundla playing his instrument during the performance. Picture: Joburg Theatre Bringing Bra Hugh’s music to life on stage Not long after the band had set the tone with some beautiful jazz, the performances began. TRESOR was the first to take the stage, and he eased into the moment with a sound that blended well with the style of Hugh Masekela. It felt like a respectful introduction to what the rest of the night would offer. The lineup included The Baobab Sisters, iComplete, and local artists like Vusi Mahlasela, Zoë Modiga, and Judith Sephuma. Each of them approached Bra Hugh’s music in their own way, while still holding onto the essence of his sound. It did not feel forced—it felt intentional and respectful. The band also deserves mention as they were consistent throughout and gave each performance a solid foundation without taking away from the artists. As the performances continued, the audience gradually became more involved. People started getting up, moving to the music, and really settling into the rhythm of the evening. One of the standout moments for me was seeing Vusi Mahlasela and Zoë Modiga on stage—their performances felt especially sincere and memorable. The music team bringing the vocals to life during the concert. Picture: Joburg Theatre A continuous journey through music As the night went on, the audience was gently carried through waves of nostalgia as the artists and band kept the energy alive on stage. It did not feel like separate acts on a lineup—it felt more like one continuous story being told through different voices and styles. Some moments were upbeat and had people dancing, including me and my mom, while other parts were slower and more reflective, giving everyone space to just sit back and take it in. My dad, for example, really leaned into those quieter moments, just listening and absorbing everything. What I appreciated most was that nothing felt rushed or forced. The concert gave the music room to breathe, and that made it easy to stay present and fully experience each moment as it came. The Baobab Sisters, Judith Sephuma, and the vocal ensemble lit up the stage with a powerful performance. Picture: Joburg Theatre A night that left a lasting impression As the concert came to an end, I took in what I had just experienced throughout the night. Walking out of the Joburg Theatre, what stayed with me was not just the music, but the feeling it left behind. It reminded me how deeply jazz carries memory, history, and emotion all at once, in a way that words sometimes cannot. I left feeling grateful that I got to share the experience with my parents, and even more aware of how music can bring people together in such meaningful ways. If I had to rate the concert, I would give it a solid 10 out of 10. I am also really grateful that the Joburg Theatre continues to create productions like this—shows that are not only entertaining, but also educational and informative. Especially for the younger generation like myself, and even the children who were present, these kinds of concerts help us understand more about our history as South Africans—why certain songs were created, and why figures like Bra Hugh Masekela became the legends they are today. Events like this are important for that reason. HAVE YOU READ THIS ONE?: Brandy on Cloud Nine as Her Memoir Hits #1 on the New York Times Bestseller List Post navigation REVIEW | WATCH: I attended Sphura Thee Level’s Live Recording Session, and It Was Epic!
