Harry Belafonte is a towering figure in the landscape of American music, celebrated both for his mellifluous voice and his profound impact on the civil rights movement. Born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. on March 1, 1927, in New York City, he rose to fame in the 1950s as a musician and actor. He was at the forefront of popularizing calypso music globally with his breakthrough album "Calypso" (1956), which included the hit "Banana Boat Song (Day-O)," a track that has since become an iconic piece in the fabric of American music culture.

Beyond his illustrious music career, Harry Belafonte is also recognized for his staunch activism. A close friend and confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Belafonte played a crucial role in the civil rights movement, leveraging his celebrity to bring attention to the struggle for racial equality. He has continued to use his platform to advocate for social justice, human rights, and humanitarian causes throughout his life. His recent releases like “The Legacy of Harry Belafonte: When Colors Come Together” and "An Evening With Harry Belafonte & Friends" reflect the rich tapestry of his work and the enduring legacy of his contributions to the arts and society. Belafonte has been honoured with numerous awards, including Grammys, a Tony, an Emmy, and the National Medal of Arts. His influence on music and activism cannot be overstated, making him a revered artist and a respected moral voice.

Genres

Calypso

Related Artists

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Sam Cooke

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Miriam Makeba

Pete Seeger

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Calypso Rose

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Latest Release

The Music You Need

Harry Belafonte

Album - 40 Tracks - Released December 23, 2022