Tributes Pour In For Jazz Legend Jonas Gwangwa!
Tributes Pour in For Jazz Legend Jonas Gwangwa. South African music lovers has suffered a great loss once again, following the recent announcement of the passing of Oscar-nominated anti-apartheid jazz trombonist and composer Jonas Gwangwa, who died at the age of 83. Social media was buzzing after learning of this shocking event.
South African president Cyril Ramaphosa led the tributes on the day of the passing, 23 January 2021. “Jonas Gwangwa ascends to our great orchestra of musical ancestors whose creative genius and dedication to the freedom of all South Africans inspired millions in our country and mobilized the international community against the apartheid system. A giant of our revolutionary cultural movement and our democratic creative industries has been called to rest.” Ramaphosa said.
#RIPJonasGwangwa continued to flood social media streets with comforting words and tributes coming from prominent people.
Gwangwa had a series of achievements. He was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in the year 2010. This is South Africa’s highest honour for outstanding contribution in arts and culture. Also, he was nominated for an Oscar for music he composed for the 1987 movie “Cry Freedom”. Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said that he used his talent to forge unity in the country.
Johannesburg Mayor Geoff Makhuba also sent his condolences to Gwangwa’s family and fans in the country and across the world.He wrote: “We are here to pass our condolences to the Gwangwa family. We recognise that a big tree has fallen, a musical giant and genius is no more. Raised in Soweto, a true son of the soil. May your soul rest in eternal peace. Robala ka Kgotso Ntate Jonas Gwangwa.”
