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".
Hugh Masekela Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Hugh Masekela reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 16 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Hugh Masekela's work falls within the Documentary genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 31% of Hugh Masekela's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains The Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Concert, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Hugh Masekela Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Hugh Masekela's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Hugh Masekela has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| 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 | - | 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 16 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".