Harry Belafonte, the legendary singer, actor, and civil rights activist, passed away on April 24, 2023, at the age of 96. Belafonte was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, using his platform to advocate for social justice and equality. In this article, we will take a look at his life, career, and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Harold George Belafonte Jr. was born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York City. He grew up in poverty, and his parents were Jamaican immigrants. Belafonte served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and then attended the New School for Social Research in New York City. He began his career as a singer in the 1940s and performed in nightclubs and theaters.
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Belafonte's breakthrough came in 1953 when he recorded the album "Calypso," which included his signature song "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)." The album was a huge success, selling over a million copies and making Belafonte the first artist to sell that many records in the United States. He went on to release many other popular albums, including "Belafonte Sings of the Caribbean," "Belafonte at Carnegie Hall," and "Midnight Special."
Activism and Philanthropy
Belafonte was not only a talented performer but also a committed activist. He was a close friend of Martin Luther King Jr. and supported the civil rights movement. He helped to organize the March on Washington in 1963 and was a strong advocate for voting rights and desegregation.
Belafonte also used his fame and wealth to support various humanitarian causes. He was a UNICEF goodwill ambassador and worked to combat hunger and poverty in Africa and other parts of the world. He founded the The Gathering for Justice organization in 2005, which works to end child incarceration and racial injustice.
Legacy
Harry Belafonte's impact on music and social justice is immeasurable. He paved the way for many other artists, including Bob Marley and Miriam Makeba, and his music continues to inspire people around the world. His activism and philanthropy were just as important as his music, and he will always be remembered as a champion for civil rights and human dignity.
Keywords: Harry Belafonte, civil rights, activism, music, legacy, humanitarianism.
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