Hugh Masekela
ActingAbout Hugh Masekela
Hugh Ramapolo Masekela (4 April 1939 – 23 January 2018) was a South African trumpeter, flugelhornist, cornetist, singer and composer who was described as "the father of South African jazz". Masekela was known for his jazz compositions and for writing well-known anti-apartheid songs such as "Soweto Blues" and "Bring Him Back Home". He also had a number-one US pop hit in 1968 with his version of "Grazing in the Grass".
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Hugh Masekela reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 15 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Documentary
The majority of Hugh Masekela's filmography leans towards the Documentary genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 33% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Hugh Masekela remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in The Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Concert, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Hugh Masekela Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Hugh Masekela's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Hugh Masekela.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) | Self (archive footage) | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2015 | I Am Thalente | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2013 | Alekesam | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 2011 | The Journey – Stories from the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2009 | Soul Power | Self (archive footage) | Average | Similar → |
| 2003 | Sophiatown | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 2003 | Freedom Beat | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2002 | Amandla! A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 1992 | Blue Notes and Exiled Voices | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1990 | Spike & Co. Do It a-Cappella | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1988 | Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 1988 | The Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Concert | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Paul Simon | Graceland: The African Concert | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 1971 | We Are Universal | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1968 | Monterey Pop | Self | Hit | Similar → |
Hugh Masekela - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Hugh Masekela?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Hugh Masekela is "The Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Concert" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Hugh Masekela acted in?
Hugh Masekela has been featured in at least 15 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Hugh Masekela?
Other notable films include "Spike & Co. Do It a-Cappella", "Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)", and "Monterey Pop".