Miriam Makeba, this is a tribute to you. Some called you Mama Africa while others referred to you as the Empress of Africa. Although I never knew you – I call you friend. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miriam_Makeba
In an age where we see little real sacrifice for others (that doesn’t have a dollar sign on the end of it), my mind goes to that great lady, civil rights activist and outspoken opponent of apartheid - Miriam Makeba, who passed away November 10, 2008 from a heart attack. Oddly enough, that seems appropriate as freedom of the heart was what she represented, lived and sang about. Exiled from her homeland for thirty years, she was brought back to South Africa in 1991 by Nelson Mandela. How do so few words about Miriam Makeba pay tribute to Mama Africa? africanmusic.org/artists/makeba.html
She came into the public spotlight in 1959 in the award winning documentary film, “Come Back Africa.” Harry Belafonte helped launch her career in the U.S. with Grammy award winning “An Evening With Belafonte/Makeba” – songs dealing with the political plight of black South Africans. Two of her most famous songs, “Pata Pata” and “The Click Song” received international acclaim.
Every time I play her beautiful music, it renews my faith in mankind. She was for real and I wonder how many people remember just how great Miriam Makeba was. Her life stood for never giving up, holding fast to your beliefs, being an example of those beliefs and living them no matter how rough the road. So Miriam Makeba – this is a tribute to Mama Africa – You!africanmusic.org/artists/makeba.html
When I listen to “Pata Pata”, I close my eyes and rock you in my arms as you rocked Africa all the many years you stood up for her, loved her and told her never to give up. The memory of the example you set is a great way to begin the year 2009.
Attila the Honey
