Happy birthday! Hugh Masekela turns 86 today

By Lori Macatee
Pretoria
Last updated on April 4, 2025

The iconic and legendary musician turns 86 on Friday, Apr. 4, 2025.

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Hugh Masekela is celebrating his 86th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed musicians of his generation.

Popular musician-singer Hugh Masekela (Grazing in the Grass, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 86th birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Masekela, a cultural icon

Born Hugh Ramopolo Masekela in Witbank on April 4, 1939, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in South African history. Masekela's not just a great musician, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Hugh hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Hugh Masekela as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 86.

Happy Birthday, Hugh, you're the best!