Yesterday it was China Sello Pashe’s birthday who passed on recently in Paris, France. Jambo Africa Online celebrates his life and times by quoting a tribute to him by his friend and comrade, Dr Leslie Dikeni. Dr Dikeni, who is now writing a book on the sociology of South African jazz, did his postgraduate studies in Paris and grew very close to China and his family.
“An ode to China Pashe
Jazz is indeed a spiritual sound that makes us socially dance, love, think better and continuously makes us conscious…
China, in his own unique individual way, wanted to contribute in various ways to this social noble cultural art form.
Influenced by other great South African trombonists, trumpeters and other Jazz legends such as Jonas Gwangwa and Johnny Mekoa, he steadfastly and uncompromisingly committed his entire life to jazz.
Now he’s cooking a musical storm in the heavenly lineup headlined by Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Kippie Moeketsi, Johnny Dyani, Bheki Mseleku, Dorothy Masuka and many other troubadours who departed our shores.
Hambakahle China
Mercie beacoup…”
