After many years spent in exile from the violence and oppression of apartheid-era South Africa, Masekela returned 20 years ago to help rebuild his homeland. Masekela's live performances continue to demonstrate his status as a South African musical freedom fighter.

"I come from a nation that has fought very hard for its dignity, liberation, and human freedom," says Masekela. "Yet as Africans, we've never been able to project our image ourselves. We've been hoodwinked into thinking our culture is barbaric and savage. A lot of people think progress is what they see on TV. They've been turned into consumers who don't produce anything. But our heritage is our biggest wealth. It's more diverse and richer than anything else we have. And it is the only thing that cannot be taken away from us."

"We're coming there to play and make people happy," concludes Masekela. "They dance their asses off at our shows. They are spiritually uplifted and that's all you can be proud to be a part of. They go out of their way to come to our shows, so you gotta' make them feel good!"

Hugh Masekela Fall 2010 US tour: 
10/15, Fri Boston. MA Berklee Performance Center 
10/16, Sat New York, NY Caregie Hall
10/17, Sun Westhampton Beach, NY The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center 
10/22, Fri Chicago. IL Symphony Center