South African jazz icon Todd Matshikiza is on today’s Google Doodle

South Africa honors the legacy of the remarkable jazz pianist, composer, and journalist, Todd Matshikiza. A special Doodle, crafted by guest artist Keith Vlahakis, was unveiled today to commemorate the day Matshikiza's iconic cantata 'Uxolo' (which means "peace") graced the Johannesburg Festival in 1956.

Born in Queenstown on March 7, 1921, Matshikiza's deep roots in music were nurtured from an early age. Under the guidance of his parents, both musically gifted - his mother, a vocalist, and his father, an organ player - Todd and his six siblings all learned to play the piano.

After gaining his music and teaching diplomas from St Peter’s College in Johannesburg, Todd showcased his expertise in multiple fields. He not only taught subjects like English and Math in high school but also composed revered choral works, including the memorable 'Hamba Kahle'.

In 1947, he relocated to Johannesburg, where his dedication to music shone even brighter. Matshikiza founded the Todd Matshikiza School of Music and became a stalwart in the Syndicate of African Artists. This syndicate had a mission: to bring music and live concerts to every corner of the country.

But it wasn’t just his music that captivated audiences. Matshikiza blended his love for jazz with journalism, securing a spot as one of the pioneering writers at the renowned Drum magazine. His writings, encapsulating the heart of jazz and offering a raw glimpse into township life, have been preserved for posterity. Some of his most notable pieces can be found in the book 'With the Lid Off: South African Insights from Home and Abroad 1959-2000'.

He also left his mark on the cinematic and theater world. His composition 'Quickly in Love' was featured in the 2013 biopic 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'. Moreover, he crafted scores for successful theatricals like 'King Kong' (1958) and 'Mkhumbane' (1960). While 'King Kong' gained international acclaim, 'Mkhumbane', despite being an evocative commentary on the Black experience during the '50s, had its wings clipped due to its political undertones.

Beyond South Africa, Matshikiza expanded his horizons in London as a pianist, freelance journalist, and radio show host. Later, he settled in Zambia, working diligently as a broadcaster and preserving music as an archivist.

His life, marked by his journey from the throes of apartheid in South Africa to his days in London, has been candidly described in his autobiography 'Chocolates for My Wife' (1961).

Today, as South Africa and the world remember Todd Matshikiza, we thank him for enriching our lives with his melodies, writings, and indomitable spirit.

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