The Most Influential Person On AIB This Week Is Zenzile Miriam Makeba

Zenzile Miriam Makeba, affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” was a renowned South African singer, songwriter, actress, and civil activist. She was a vocal opponent of apartheid and white-minority rule in South Africa and made history as the first African to receive a Grammy Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the US recording industry.

Born in Johannesburg on March 4, 1932, Makeba faced significant hardships early in life. After her father’s death, she was compelled to work as a child. Her first marriage at 17 was abusive, and in 1950, she gave birth to her only child. A survivor of breast cancer, she endured further tragedy when her daughter Bongi died in childbirth in 1985, leaving Makeba to care for her two grandchildren.

Makeba’s musical journey began in her school choir and evolved into a professional career in the 1950s with the group “The Manhattan Brothers.” She later joined the all-female group “The Skylarks,” blending jazz, traditional melodies, and Western popular music.

In 1959, Makeba gained international recognition through her role in the anti-apartheid film “Come Back, Africa,” which led to performances in Venice, London, and New York City.

Her involvement in the film resulted in her exile from South Africa, even preventing her from returning to bury her mother. She returned to South Africa when Mandella was released from Prison. She established the Makeba Centre for Girls, a home for orphans.

Relocating to New York City, Makeba’s career flourished. She recorded her first solo album in 1960 and spent 30 successful years abroad, during which she testified before the United Nations against apartheid.
Makeba was celebrated for her Xhosa and Zulu songs, including hits like “Pata Pata” (1967) and the “Click Song” (1960). She was appointed as a UN Goodwill Ambassador for the Food and Agriculture Organization and continued to perform well into her later years. Tragically, she collapsed and died of a heart attack after a performance.

Makeba’s legacy as an artist and activist continues to inspire generations worldwide.