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Quick Facts
Born
1937
1937
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Jonas Mosa Gwangwa was a South African trombonist, composer, and cultural icon whose music became a voice for freedom and unity. Born in Orlando East, Soweto, his love for jazz developed at a young age, and his exceptional talent soon made him one of the country’s most respected musicians.
In the late 1950s, Gwangwa rose to prominence as a member of the legendary Jazz Epistles alongside Abdullah Ibrahim, Hugh Masekela, and Kippie Moeketsi. The group’s innovative fusion of American bebop with African rhythms laid the foundation for modern South African jazz. As apartheid tightened its grip, Gwangwa’s music became both a form of expression and quiet defiance, echoing the struggles and hopes of his people.
Forced into exile in the 1970s, he continued to use his music as a tool for change. During this time, he became the musical director of the Amandla Cultural Ensemble, a project of the African National Congress (ANC) that toured the world, spreading the message of resistance and freedom through performance. His leadership helped bridge cultural and political activism, showing how art could be both beautiful and revolutionary.
Gwangwa gained international acclaim for his work on the 1987 film “Cry Freedom,” where his compositions captured the emotional depth of South Africa’s struggle. His contributions earned him nominations for prestigious international awards, cementing his place on the global stage. After returning home in the 1990s, he continued to perform, mentor young artists, and contribute to the rebirth of South African music. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to culture and justice, he received the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold in 2010.
Jonas Gwangwa passed away in January 2021, leaving behind a legacy defined by integrity, creativity, and resilience. Through his trombone and his songs, he told South Africa’s story, one of endurance, faith, and the unbroken rhythm of freedom.