Miriam Makeba

Reflections

2004-07-12

The life of South African vocalist Miriam Makeba has been one of struggle.

Makeba was thrown in jail before turning one year old, living for six months with her mother in a Johannesburg prison. During her early recording career, she remained a visible and outspoken opponent of apartheid and was subsequently sent into exile, having her South African citizenship revoked for thirty years.

During that time, she carried her message of hope to the world, touring and recording internationally with Paul Simon, Harry Belafonte, Odetta, Nina Simone and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Following apartheid’s collapse in 1990, Miriam Makeba reclaimed her throne as the Empress of African Song. She returns now with Reflections, new on the Heads Up record label.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #World

  • reviewed 09/2008

    FUNKADESI
    – Yo Baba

  • reviewed 03/2008

    VARIOUS ARTISTS
    In the Name of Love: Africa Celebrates U2

  • reviewed 11/2004

    Rokia Traore
    Bowmboi

  • reviewed 07/2011

    DA CRUZ
    Sistema Subversiva

  • reviewed 11/2009

    LE VENT DU NORD
    LA PART DU FEU

  • reviewed 05/2004

    Various Artists
    Bridge to Havana

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.