News

Jonas Gwangwa, Trombonist & Anti-Apartheid Advocate, Dead At 83

It’s a sad week for South African music, apparently. Celebrated South African trombonist and anti-apartheid advocate Jonas Gwangwa has been confirmed dead. He was aged 83.

Born in Soweto in 1937, Jonas Gwangwa’s interest in the trombone dates back to when he was young. He manages to master the instrument and soon achieved fame on a global scale as a trombonist.

He had been nominated for, among others, A Grammy, Golden Globe and Academy awards. Jonas Gwangwa stood out as much for his music as for anti-apartheid advocacy. At some point, his records were banned in South Africa because the apartheid government felt threatened by them

Following the announcement of his death, condolences have been pouring in from around the world. South Africa’s president Cyril Ramaphosa described the late jazz maestro as a giant of South Africa’s revolutionary cultural movement.

Jonas Gwangwa, Trombonist &Amp; Anti-Apartheid Advocate, Dead At 83 2Jonas Gwangwa, Trombonist &Amp; Anti-Apartheid Advocate, Dead At 83 3

On his part, Kalawa Jazmee boss Oskido tweeted that the day of Jonas Gwangwa’s passing will be remembered as a sad day for South Africa and it’s music industry, describing the late Jonas Gwangwa as a fallen giant.

Jonas Gwangwa, Trombonist &Amp; Anti-Apartheid Advocate, Dead At 83 4

Got some kind words to share with the deceased’s family? You might want to drop them in the comment section below. Way to go!

Back to top button