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 01/2007

    HAZMAT MODINE
    Klezmer Blues

  • reviewed 12/2010

    BUJU BANTON
    Before the Dawn

  • reviewed 01/2004

    Kate Rusby
    Underneath the Stars

  • reviewed 06/2008

    CAPERCAILLIE
    Roses and Tears

  • reviewed 05/2005

    Celia Cruz
    The Rough Guide to Celia Cruz

  • reviewed 08/2007

    SUPHALA
    Blueprint

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.