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 06/2004

    Afro-Celt Sound System
    Pod

  • reviewed 10/2008

    CURUMIN
    - Japan Pop Show

  • reviewed 06/2005

    Shukar Collective
    Urban Gypsy

  • reviewed 05/2006

    Natacha Atlas
    Mish Maoul

  • reviewed 08/2009

    K'NAAN
    Troubadour

  • reviewed 02/2014

    SABINA
    Toujours

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.