Miriam Makeba

Date of Birth: March 4, 1932

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: November 9, 2008

Biography

Miriam Makeba, also known as “Mama Africa,” was a South African singer, songwriter, actress, and civil rights activist. Born in Johannesburg, she became one of the first African musicians to gain international recognition. Makeba is best known for her hit songs “Pata Pata,” “The Click Song,” and “Malaika.” Her music was a powerful blend of traditional African sounds, jazz, and soul. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Makeba was a prominent anti-apartheid activist, using her global platform to speak out against the racial injustices in South Africa. Her activism led to her exile from her homeland for over three decades. Throughout her life, Makeba received numerous awards and honors, including the Grammy Award for Best Folk Recording in 1966 for her collaboration with Harry Belafonte.

5 Interesting Facts about Miriam Makeba

1. Miriam Makeba was the first African woman to win a Grammy Award.

2. She testified against apartheid before the United Nations in 1963.

3. Makeba was married to the American civil rights activist Stokely Carmichael.

4. She was exiled from South Africa in 1960 and did not return until 1990.

5. Makeba’s nickname “Mama Africa” reflected her role as a global ambassador for African culture and music.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Miriam Makeba

1. “I will sing until the day I die.”

2. “I have accepted my fate as a voice for the voiceless.”

3. “Everybody should know about apartheid and the evils of racism. People should know about the struggles that black South Africans are going through.”

4. “My music is against apartheid, against all forms of racism and segregation.”

5. “In the end, we are all one.”