Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte (1927-2023) was an American singer, actor, producer, and civil rights activist who recorded and performed in many genres, including blues, folk, gospel, show tunes, and American standards. He was best known for his recordings of “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)”, “Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora)”, “Jamaica Farewell”, and “Mary’s Boy Child”.

Belafonte popularized the Caribbean folk songs known as calypsos, and his debut album Calypso was the first million-selling LP by a single artist. He also championed many social and political causes, and earned prestigious accolades such as the National Medal of Arts, one Tony Award, one Emmy Award, and two Grammy Awards. 

Belafonte died at age 96 on April 25, 2023. 


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