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

    Tarika
    10: Beasts, Ghosts and Dancing with History

  • reviewed 05/2008

    Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich + Fussible
    Tijuana Sound Machine

  • reviewed 11/2010

    DARK DARK DARK
    Wild Go

  • reviewed 01/2007

    ALOE BLACC
    Shine Through

  • reviewed 10/2004

    dZihan & Kamien
    Live in Vienna

  • reviewed 07/2004

    Like Water Drumworks
    Like Water to the Roots

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.