Jonas Mosa Gwangwa, born on October 19, 1937, was a legendary South African jazz musician, songwriter, and producer. Hailing from Orlando East, Soweto, Gwangwa’s musical journey began with The Jazz Epistles, where he showcased his talent as a trombonist. Despite apartheid’s challenges, he gained international recognition, performing at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall alongside icons like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela.
| Born | 19 October 1937 Soweto, South Africa |
|---|---|
| Origin | South Africa |
| Died | 23 January 2021 (aged 83) |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter, producer |
| Years active | 1959–2021 |
Exiled in the 1970s, Gwangwa’s activism continued as he founded the band Shakawe in Botswana, advocating against apartheid through music. As the leader of Amandla, he toured globally, narrating South Africa’s struggle against apartheid through musical storytelling.
His contributions extended beyond music, composing scores for films like “Cry Freedom” and performing at significant events like Nelson Mandela’s 70th Birthday Tribute. Gwangwa’s legacy lives on, inspiring generations with his timeless melodies.
He passed away on January 23, 2021, leaving behind a remarkable musical heritage.
Leave a Reply