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'Why shouldn’t power be Black’? How Miriam Makeba won and lost the US
Miriam Makeba, a South African singer, arrived in the US on November 28, 1959. Harry Belafonte, a famous Jamaican-American singer, quickly helped her with a visa and introduced her to the music scene. She was nervous about performing on TV, but she wowed the audience with her traditional isiXhosa song. This marked the beginning of her fame in America.
#MiriamMakeba #MusicHistory #CivilRights
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Makeba faced numerous struggles growing up in apartheid South Africa. Born in poverty, she initially had to fight for opportunities in music. Her talent led her to join school choirs and local bands, defying the odds set against her. Despite a traumatic past, including the death of a friend in a car accident, she persevered.
Her breakthrough came when she starred in a film about apartheid called Come Back, Africa. This opportunity, along with her role in the South African musical King Kong, helped her gain international attention. The performance was so impactful that it caught the eye of many influential figures in America.
Makeba quickly became a star, performing at renowned venues like the Village Vanguard in New York. Her unique style and powerful performances captivated audiences. She sang in different languages and blended various musical influences, which helped her stand out.
As her fame grew, Makeba began to address social issues. Her friendship with activists like Belafonte led her to speak about apartheid and civil rights in the US. She used her platform to educate audiences about the struggles faced by Black people in both South Africa and America.
The Sharpeville massacre in 1960, where many Black South Africans were killed by police, profoundly affected Makeba. This event intensified her activism, and she began to speak out more against apartheid. She called for justice and raised awareness about the situation back home.
In 1963, Makeba addressed the United Nations about the harsh realities of apartheid. Her speech highlighted the injustices faced by her people and called for international support against the apartheid regime. This act further solidified her role as a global activist.
Makeba's personal life became complicated when she fell in love with activist Stokely Carmichael. Their relationship faced scrutiny, and her association with him led to professional setbacks. She faced backlash from venues and canceled performances.
Following her marriage to Carmichael, Makeba was effectively "canceled" in the US. Concerts and record deals were pulled, and she was pushed out of the spotlight. However, she remained resilient and continued her activism in Guinea, where she spent almost 14 years
Despite the challenges she faced, Makeba's legacy as "Mama Afrika" endures. She became a symbol of hope and resistance for many across Africa. Her music and activism continue to inspire new generations, making her an iconic figure in both the music world and civil rights movements.
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