By Lehlohonolo Lehana.

Photo Credit Sarah Lee.

SA Tourism in collaboration with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation, celebrated the legendary jazz musician, Hugh Masekela, at an event held at Dizzy's Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center.

The highlight of the afternoon was the induction of Hugh Masekela into the Ertegun Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition for his exceptional talent and remarkable achievements in the music industry. 

Masekela passed away in January 2018 at the age of 78 following a battle with prostate cancer and he was laid to rest at Westpark Cemetery on January 30.

South African Tourism and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation hosted a pre-induction reception at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Ertegun Hall of Fame which was attended by special guests, jazz enthusiasts, and journalists, who gathered to pay tribute to Masekela's legacy.

Speaking about the event, Themba Khumalo, Acting CEO of South African Tourism said, "We are honored to pay tribute to the late Hugh Masekela, a true icon of jazz music and a cultural ambassador for South Africa. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and his legacy lives on through the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation. We are proud to celebrate his induction into the Ertegun Hall of Fame and highlight the unique cultural offerings of South Africa as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking enriching experiences."

Hugh Masekela, fondly known as "Bra Hugh," was born and raised in South Africa, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.  

At the same time, the honour comes as Mzansi singer Thandiswa Mazwai headed to social media and shared her experience of visiting the grave of 'Bra Hugh' for the first time since his burial.

The former Bongo Muffin member shared images from her visit to his grave speaking of how much she missed the musician.

"I sat for an hour while the winter sun warmed my back and the cold floor iced my bare feet. I played his music, then my new music, "she wrote on Instagram.

"I wrote in my notebook while burning a (marijuana) and some palo santo. I cried a little bit and sat there for an hour before I finally left. David Adjaye created such a beautiful place to sit and honour Bra Hugh. Always missed Uncle Hugh. I miss your kind and gentle counsel as I finish this work."