Harry Belafonte, born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York City, is a world-renowned artist who has made an indelible mark in music, acting, and activism. As a singer, he is famously known as the "King of Calypso," having popularized the genre worldwide. Belafonte's career spans over six decades, during which he has garnered numerous accolades, including Grammys, an Emmy, and a Tony. However, Belafonte is also well-known for his political activism, particularly in the Civil Rights Movement. In this article, we will delve into the life, career, and legacy of Harry Belafonte.
Early Life
Belafonte was born to Caribbean parents who immigrated to the United States. His mother was from Jamaica, and his father was from Martinique. As a child, Belafonte spent a lot of time in Jamaica with his grandparents. However, after his parents' divorce, he moved back to New York City with his mother. Growing up in Harlem, Belafonte experienced poverty and discrimination, which would later influence his activism. Belafonte joined the Navy during World War II, after which he pursued acting.
Music Career
Belafonte's music career began in the early 1950s when he started singing in clubs in New York City. He was eventually discovered by a talent scout and signed a recording contract with RCA Victor. His breakout hit was the 1956 album "Calypso," which featured the hit song "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)." The album became the first-ever album to sell over one million copies. Belafonte went on to release many more successful albums, including "Belafonte Sings the Blues" and "Jump Up Calypso." Belafonte's music not only popularized calypso music but also brought Caribbean culture to the mainstream.
Acting Career
Belafonte's acting career began in the 1950s when he appeared in his first film, "Bright Road." He went on to act in many more films, including "Carmen Jones," "Island in the Sun," and "Buck and the Preacher." Belafonte was also the first African American to win an Emmy for his television special "Tonight with Belafonte" in 1959. In addition to acting, Belafonte also produced films, including the award-winning documentary "The Long Road to Freedom: The Advocate Celebrates 200 Years."
Activism
Belafonte's activism began in the 1960s when he became involved in the Civil Rights Movement. He was a close friend and confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and helped to finance the movement. Belafonte was also involved in anti-apartheid activism and served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Belafonte's activism has earned him numerous awards, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Prize and the Nelson Mandela Courage Award.
Legacy
Belafonte's legacy extends far beyond his music and acting careers. He has been an inspiration to many activists and artists, who credit him with paving the way for their success. Belafonte's activism has also inspired many, and his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement will forever be remembered. In addition to his activism, Belafonte has also been recognized for his philanthropy, including the founding of the Gathering for Justice organization, which seeks to end child incarceration.
Harry Belafonte Wife
Harry Belafonte has been married three times. His first marriage was to Marguerite Byrd in 1948, and they had two daughters together, Adrienne and Shari. The couple divorced in 1957.
Belafonte's second marriage was to actress and dancer Julie Robinson in 1957, and they had two children together, David and Gina. The couple divorced in 2008 after 51 years of marriage.
In 2008, Belafonte married his third wife, photographer and former model Pamela Frank. They had been in a long-term relationship before tying the knot.
Belafonte's personal life has been the subject of media scrutiny over the years, with some controversy surrounding his divorce from Robinson and custody battles with his first wife over their daughters. Despite this, Belafonte has remained a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and a champion for social justice causes.
Harry Belafonte Parents
Harry Belafonte was born in Harlem, New York, on March 1, 1927. His mother, Melvine Love, was of Jamaican descent, and his father, Harold George Belafonte Sr., was born in Martinique and had African and French ancestry.
Belafonte's parents separated when he was a young child, and he and his brother were primarily raised by their mother in poverty. Despite their financial struggles, Love placed a strong emphasis on education and encouraged her sons to pursue their passions.
Belafonte's mixed heritage and experiences growing up in Harlem would later influence his music and activism, as he became known for blending different styles of music and using his platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice causes.
Harry Belafonte Kids
Harry Belafonte has four children from his two marriages. With his first wife Marguerite Byrd, he has two daughters: Adrienne and Shari Belafonte.
With his second wife Julie Robinson, he has two children: David and Gina Belafonte. David has followed in his father's footsteps and pursued a career in the entertainment industry as a producer and director.
Belafonte has been a devoted father to his children, and they have been supportive of his career and activism over the years. In addition to his biological children, Belafonte has also been a mentor and father figure to many young performers and activists, including the late civil rights icon and congressman John Lewis.
Harry Belafonte Death
Harry Belafonte, the singer, actor and activist who broke one barrier after another in his tireless fight for equality and civil rights, died on April 25 at the age of 96 due to congestive heart failure. Many celebrities have taken to social media to mourn him including John Legend, Barack Obama, & more. He was known as the ‘King of Calypso’ and was a prominent activist in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s
Conclusion
Harry Belafonte is an icon in the entertainment industry, having made a significant impact in music, acting, and activism. As the "King of Calypso," Belafonte's music not only entertained but also brought cultural awareness and appreciation. Belafonte's acting career was also noteworthy, as he broke barriers and paved the way for future African American actors. His activism and contributions to the Civil Rights Movement will forever be remembered, and his legacy as a philanthropist continues to inspire many.
Harry Belafonte's life and career serve as a testament to the power of art and activism in creating positive change in the world. As a pioneer in the entertainment industry, Belafonte broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of artists and activists. His contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, anti-apartheid activism, and philanthropy have earned him numerous awards and accolades. Harry Belafonte's legacy as the "King of Calypso" and a champion for social justice will continue to inspire and impact future generations.
FAQs
1. What was Harry Belafonte's most famous song?
- Harry Belafonte's most famous song is "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)."
2. What was Harry Belafonte's contribution to the Civil Rights Movement?
- Harry Belafonte was a close friend and confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and helped to finance the movement.
3. What was Harry Belafonte's involvement in anti-apartheid activism?
- Harry Belafonte was involved in anti-apartheid activism and was a vocal critic of South Africa's apartheid regime.
4. What awards has Harry Belafonte won?
- Harry Belafonte has won numerous awards, including Grammys, an Emmy, a Tony, the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Prize, and the Nelson Mandela Courage Award.
5. What is the Gathering for Justice organization?
- The Gathering for Justice organization is a non-profit founded by Harry Belafonte that seeks to end child incarceration and promote social justice.
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