Harry Belafonte

Early Life and Career: 

Born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York, Harold George Belafonte Jr., better known as Harry Belafonte, is a multifaceted talent whose career spans over seven decades. Belafonte's journey began in the vibrant atmosphere of the Harlem Renaissance, where he developed a deep appreciation for the arts. Raised by Caribbean immigrant parents, his early exposure to music and culture played a pivotal role in shaping his future.

Harry's entertainment career kicked off in the 1950s, marked by his breakthrough album "Calypso" in 1956. This record not only showcased his exceptional singing abilities but also introduced the world to the infectious Caribbean sounds, making Belafonte the first artist to sell a million copies of an album. The iconic track "Banana Boat Song (Day-O)" became synonymous with his name and remains a timeless classic.

Trailblazing Achievements: 

Belafonte was not just a musical sensation; he made significant strides as an actor. His film career includes notable roles in productions such as "Carmen Jones" (1954), "Odds Against Tomorrow" (1959), and "Island in the Sun" (1957). His charismatic presence on screen contributed to breaking racial barriers in the film industry during a time of segregation.

As a live performer, Belafonte's concerts were not just showcases of his vocal prowess but also platforms for promoting social justice. He embraced activism early on, using his fame to champion civil rights causes. His friendship with Martin Luther King Jr. and participation in the Civil Rights Movement solidified his commitment to equality and justice.

Activism and Humanitarian Efforts: 

Belafonte's dedication to social change extended beyond the United States. He played a crucial role in the anti-apartheid movement against racial segregation in South Africa and was instrumental in the "We Are the World" initiative, a humanitarian effort that raised funds for famine relief in Africa.

Throughout his career, Belafonte's activism has earned him numerous accolades, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Prize, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts.

Legacy: 

Harry Belafonte is not only a legendary entertainer but also a trailblazer who used his influence to fight for justice and equality. His enduring impact on the worlds of music, film, and activism makes him an icon whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Beyond the stage and screen, Harry Belafonte remains a symbol of resilience, courage, and the power of using one's voice for positive change.

An actor, humanitarian and the acknowledged “King of Calypso,” Harry Belafonte ranked among the most seminal performers of the postwar era. One of the most successful African-American pop stars in history, Belafonte’s staggering talent, good looks and masterful assimilation of folk, jazz and world-beat rhythms allowed him to achieve a level of mainstream eminence and crossover popularity virtually unparalleled in the days before the advent of the civil rights movement — a cultural uprising which he himself helped spearhead. Belafonte is perhaps best known for singing “The Banana Boat Song”, with its signature lyric “Day-O”. 

Throughout his career he has been an advocate for civil rights and humanitarian causes. Robeson opposed not only racial prejudice in the United States, but also western colonialism in Africa. Belafonte’s success did not protect him from racial discrimination, particularly in the American South. 

He refused to perform there from 1954 until 1961. In 1960 he appeared in a campaign commercial for Democratic Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy, who later named Belafonte cultural advisor to the Peace Corps. 

Belafonte gave the keynote address at the ACLU of Northern California’s annual Bill of Rights Day Celebration In December 2007 and was awarded the Chief Justice Earl Warren Civil Liberties Award. The 2011 Sundance Film Festival featured the documentary film Sing Your Song, a biographical film focusing on Belafonte’s contribution to and his leadership in the civil rights movement in America and his endeavors to promote social justice globally. In 2011 Belafonte also presented his memoir My Song.