Hugh Masekela in June 2009. (Gallo Images/ Bongiwe Gumede)
For over six decades Hugh Masekela brought joy to millions of people around the globe through his music.
The legendary musician died on Tuesday morning in Johannesburg surrounded his loved ones.
Ever since news of Bra Hugh's death broke social media has been filled with an outpouring of tributes in his honour.
Bra Hugh's son, Selema Mabena 'Sal' Masekela said he was battling to come to terms with his father's death.
"It is difficult to comprehend that this moment is real. To me, my father has always been both ageless and immortal."
Bra Hugh was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008 and underwent eye surgery in March 2017 as the cancer had spread, and had to go into theatre again in September 2016 after another tumor was discovered.
Here's a look into the life of a musical giant through pictures:
Legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba with fellow musician and ex-husband Hugh Masekela. (Gallo Images / Avusa)
Legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela. (Gallo Images / Sunday Times)
Hugh Masekela, the father of African Jazz. (Gallo Images)
South African jazz musicians, Hugh Masekela & Jonas Gwangwa, performing on stage at the South African State Theater for the president's concert, 2010. (Gallo Images)
Legendary musician Hugh Masekela died in Johannesburg on Tuesday. (Gallo Images / Sowetan / Veli Nhlapo)
Jazz legend Hugh Masekela performs during the Oppikoppi festival on August 9, 2014 in Northam, South Africa (Gallo Images / Alet Pretorius)
Hugh Masekela in June 2009. (Gallo Images/ Bongiwe Gumede)
Hugh Masekela enthralled audiences around the world with his music. (Gallo Images/ Lulama Zenzile)
Hugh Masekela was bestowed with a sixth doctorate by Wits University on July 04, 2017 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Masekela was conferred with a doctorate of music for his role as an artist and social activist during apartheid. (Gallo Images / Sowetan / Thulani Mbele)
Hugh Masekela during the annual MTN Bushfire Festival on May 30, 2017 in Malkerns Valley, Swaziland. (Gallo Images /Alet Pretorius)
Hugh during the DStv Mzansi Viewer's Choice Awards (DStvMVCA) event at the Sandton Convention Centre on August 26, 2017 in Sandton, South Africa. Hosted by Bonang Matheba, the inaugural Hugh performed at the DStvMVCA's last year. (Gallo Images / Frennie Shivambu)
