A life-size bronze statue of the late, legendary musician Johnny Clegg has found its rightful place in the monumental Long March to Freedom at Century City, Cape Town.
This remarkable addition ensures that Clegg, celebrated for his role in both music and social activism, takes his place alongside other iconic resistance leaders and freedom fighters who helped shape South Africa's journey to democracy.
Long March to Freedom is a one-of-a-kind outdoor exhibition, a procession of life-size bronze statues that tells the 350-year story of South Africa’s liberation.
Situated in Century City, the statues represent notable figures in the fight for freedom – from Nelson and Winnie Mandela, Beyers Naude, and Mahatma Gandhi to Albert Luthuli, OR Tambo, and many others whose stories are integral to the nation’s history but often overlooked.
Now, Clegg, celebrated as a pioneering musician and anti-apartheid activist, joins this historic line-up.
Born in England in 1953, Clegg moved to South Africa at a young age, where he immersed himself in Zulu culture, studying its music and language.
His work as an anthropologist combined seamlessly with his passion for music, leading to the creation of the multi-racial bands Juluka and Savuka, which defied apartheid’s racial segregation. Clegg’s music, blending Western rock with traditional Zulu sounds, became a powerful tool of resistance. His iconic songs, such as Asimbonanga and Scatterlings of Africa, became anthems of hope, unity, and the fight against oppression.
Clegg’s advocacy for social justice extended beyond his music, using his platform to challenge apartheid policies and promote racial reconciliation.
His legacy continues to inspire, symbolising the power of culture and music to heal divisions. He passed away in 2019, but his impact remains profound across generations.
The statue, created by Cape Town artists Barry Jackson and Xhanti Mpakama and cast by Loup Fine Art Foundry in White River, Mpumalanga, was made possible through the generous support of the National Lotteries Commission.
Dali Tambo, CEO of the National Heritage Project NPC, expressed his gratitude to Clegg’s family, who were deeply involved in the process, from selecting the statue’s stance to ensuring every detail honoured Clegg’s memory.
Speaking at the unveiling, Tambo addressed Clegg’s family directly: “Jenny, Jaron, Jesse, welcome. This is for you. This day is for you. It’s forever, it’s for our nation.”
He went on to highlight Clegg’s profound cultural contributions, stating, “Johnny was a cultural alchemist who blended sounds from many cultures into something uniquely his own. His music was a bridge, connecting lives and cultures. He was bold for the truth, creating anthems of unity and hope.”
Tambo also spoke passionately about the Long March to Freedom project, which began 13 years ago. “It has been a journey of love and passion.
“We want this to become as significant as the Eiffel Tower is to France,” Tambo shared.
He concluded saying that the addition of Clegg’s statue, is not only a commemoration of his contribution to South African music and the anti-apartheid movement but also serves as a tribute to all who dreamed of and fought for a better tomorrow.
Jaron Clegg, Johnny’s son, also spoke emotionally about the statue and his father’s legacy.
He started off with the lyrics of one of his dad’s songs, ‘Heart of a dancer’.
“I want to look into the heart of the dancer. His movements have a magic mystery. They must have a message and a meaning 'cause he's doing something to me.
“He wasn’t just a musician and performer. He was a storyteller, a person who built bridges. Music and dance were his language, a way of connecting with people and inviting them into something bigger.”
He continued, “This isn’t just a monument, it’s a piece of him – something that will last for generations.”
He also reflected on the deep connection his father had with Zulu culture, despite not being born into it.
“My father wasn’t born into the Zulu culture, but he carried it, he accepted it, and it became part of him. Music and dance were woven into his life. When he was having a tough day, he would step outside, pick up his sticks and shield, and let his feet pound the earth, aligning himself with the roots of the people.”
“My father’s journey was not one he walked alone,” Jaron continued. “Every step, every triumph, every celebration, my mother was there. She created the space for him to dream, and today we honour him – and I want to honour her as well.”
As the ceremony drew to a close, Jaron summed up the significance of the moment. “For our family, this moment is bittersweet. But being here today, with my father’s dance captured in bronze, means a lot to us. It’s not just a monument – it’s a lasting tribute to his spirit, to his music, and to the connections he fostered.”
Weekend Argus