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South Africa’s iconic trumpeter Hugh Masekela, and MiCasa front-man J’Something, set off on a journey to create a song inspired by each other and the rich heritage of South Africa. This diverse collaboration by two celebrated musical icons from different generations and genres, has resulted in the recent launch of “Heaven In You”, the video that captures Hugh Masekela and J’Something’s behind-the-scenes magic.
Developed by Mercedes-Benz, this is the fifth in a series of short films under a successful SUV campaign “Find your Best – #EveryTerrain”.
In each episode, an unlikely duo travels to a remote corner of southern Africa in one of the remarkable new Mercedes-Benz SUVs. On varying terrain, and inspired by their experiences, they need to produce a one-of-a-kind creation to “find their best”. Each duo has just 48 hours to complete their specific challenge – expect tensions to run high as the stories unfold.
In episode 5, Hugh and J’Something talk the language of music as they drive along the Garden Route in the new Mercedes-Benz GLS, in search of inspiration. Their task is to record an original song, which resulted in “Heaven In You”. The haunting lyrics tell of Hugh’s love for his homeland despite his exile during the country’s troubled past.
“Spending 48 hours with one of my mentors and someone I look up to in the music industry has been the highlight of my career. Listening to Bra Hugh talk about South Africa as his ‘first love’, witnessing the beauty he sees in everything – the land, the people, the endless opportunities – and then watching him translate this passion into music was awe-inspiring. ‘Heaven In You’ is more than just a great song; I wanted to write a love letter from Hugh Masekela for South Africa that captured his relationship with the country and my respect, love and gratitude I have for this land. I hope this song will inspire people to love and appreciate every curve of this beautiful country,” says J’Something.
Undoubtedly, 2015 was The Year of the SUV for Mercedes-Benz as they introduced new models to their already extensive SUV range. To showcase these vehicles in varying terrains, they undertook a fresh and interactive approach, by infusing a campaign with local content, through film for social platforms.
“These films celebrate our culture and diversity superbly, and also showcase our vehicles’ capabilities,” says Selvin Govender, Marketing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars.
“Our aim was to create credible, character-driven content that is engaging and compelling to a broad local audience. We’re highlighting the encompassing beauty of our country and bringing home what South Africans love about our lifestyle while we position Mercedes-Benz SUVs as the best on every terrain,” adds Govender.
According to a statement obtained by AUTO REPORT AFRICA, an #EveryTerrain video will be released each week in the lead-up to Heritage Day.
