Harry Belafonte: Activist and Entertainer

Harry Belafonte, activist and entertainer, dies at 96.

A 1976 portrait of the singer, actor and activist Harry Belafonte. He died Tuesday at age 96.

AFP/Getty Images.

On March 1st, 2021, the world lost a true icon of music and activism:

Introduction:

Harry Belafonte. The legendary singer and actor passed away at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence and social justice activism.

Harry Belafonte was in the forefront of the civil rights movement, working closely with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Who is Harry Belafonte?:

Belafonte was born in Harlem in 1927 to a Jamaican mother and a father who was a chef and a boatman. He grew up in poverty and dropped out of high school to join the U.S. Navy during World War II. After the war, he returned to New York City and began his career in the arts.

Belafonte's Singing Career:

Belafonte started out as a singer in clubs in New York City, and eventually landed a recording contract with RCA Victor. His breakthrough hit came in 1956 with "The Banana Boat Song," which became an international sensation and cemented his place in music history.

Belafonte's music:

Belafonte's music was a fusion of different genres, including traditional Caribbean music, jazz, and pop. He was known for his smooth voice and his ability to capture the spirit of his songs, whether they were joyful, melancholy, or politically charged.

Belafonte was more than a musician:

But Belafonte was more than just a musician. He was also a committed social justice activist who used his platform to fight for civil rights, equality, and peace. He was a close friend of Martin Luther King Jr. and supported the Civil Rights Movement through his music and his actions.

Harry Belafonte on the Nat King Cole Show

He also appeared on the Nat King Cole Show to support his friend Cole, who was the first Black man to host his own nationally televised variety program.

Belafonte was a true pioneer and trailblazer in both music and activism:

Belafonte was also involved in the fight against apartheid in South Africa and was an early supporter of Nelson Mandela. He helped to organize the "Sun City" boycott, which aimed to pressure artists to refuse to perform at the Sun City resort in South Africa, which was seen as a symbol of apartheid. Belafonte was a true pioneer and trailblazer in both music and activism. He paved the way for future generations of artists and activists to use their talents to effect change in the world. His legacy will live on through his music, his activism, and the many lives he touched and inspired throughout his long and remarkable career.

Harry Belafonte at the March on Washington

While growing his career in the arts, Belafonte became a fierce advocate for civil rights. Here, he joined Charlton Heston, Burt Lancaster and Sidney Poitier at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, a large civil rights rally that took place in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 28, 1963.

Photo: Express/Archive Photos/Getty Images.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Harry Belafonte was not only an accomplished entertainer but also a civil rights activist. His activism extended beyond the United States to include the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. He used his platform to promote social justice and change in the world. Belafonte's contribution to music and activism will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.