As news of Harold George ‘Harry’ Belafonte’s passing spread around the world, fans and admirers alike mourned the loss of a true icon. The legendary calypso singer and actor was more than a talented entertainer, but also a passionate activist, humanitarian, and advocate for the oppressed.
Born in 1927 in New York City, Belafonte began his career in the late 1940s, rising to fame with his hit recordings of Calypso music.
His smooth voice and infectious rhythms captured the hearts of audiences everywhere, and he became known as the “King of Calypso.” He sold millions of albums and toured around the world, spreading the joy of his music, and putting Calypso on the map as a distinct genre of its own.
But Belafonte was more than just a musical talent. He was also deeply committed to using his platform and voice to speak out against racism and social injustice. In the 1960s, he became a close friend and confidant of Martin Luther King Jr. and was one of the most prominent supporters of the Civil Rights Movement. He used his celebrity status to raise awareness and mobilise resources for the cause and marched alongside King and other activists in the historic Selma to Montgomery march of 1965.
Belafonte’s activism went beyond the United States as well. He was a noted advocate for human rights and humanitarian causes around the world, especially on the African continent. In the 1980s he was one of the key figures in the US anti-Apartheid movement. Together with the legendary tennis player Arthur Ashe, was the co-founder of the group Artists for a Free South Africa, which included such luminaries as Paul Simon, Bonnie Raitt, and Wynton Marsalis, among others.
Belafonte’s humanitarian work extended beyond political activism. He was a tireless advocate against poverty and underdevelopment around the world and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those in need. In 1985, he helped organize the Live Aid benefit concert, which raised millions of dollars for famine relief efforts in Africa. He also founded the Harry Belafonte 21st Century Library, which provides educational resources to underprivileged children in the United States.
As we mourn the departure of this extraordinarily humane human being, we also celebrate his life by remembering his contributions to all facets of human life his talents and works could reach. He set an example for worth emulating by all of us remain!
The Patron of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, President Thabo Mbeki, our board, and staff would like to convey our deepest condolences to Harry Belafonte’s family, his children, and grandchildren.
May his soul rest in eternal peace!
Issued by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation
26 April 2023