The extraordinary wisdom and forgiveness of Nelson Mandela as he led South Africa out of the hated apartheid system to a non-racial, democratic society is a deep inspiration that will long outlive him. Along the long journey to freedom, South African musicians offered vivid reflections of the emotions of the moment. We will hear conversations with some of the veterans of SA music including Ray Phiri, Lucky Dube, Dorothy Masuka, and others. They share their recollections of key events: the June 16, 1976 Soweto Student Uprising; the Feb. 11, 1990 release from jail of Nelson Mandela; first democratic elections April 27, 1994 for the New South Africa. Plus younger stars of kwaito music including Kabelo and Thandiswa Mazwai speak for the youth generation. We’ll hear classic tracks, “Black President” by Brenda Fassie, “We Miss You Manelow” by Chicco and “Bring Him Back Home” by Hugh Masekela.
