About
Zenzile Miriam Makeba, known as Mama Africa, was a South African singer, songwriter, actress, and civil rights activist. She was a prominent figure in Afropop, jazz, and world music genres. Makeba used her music to advocate against apartheid and white-minority rule in South Africa. She spent much of her life in exile due to her activism.
Career Timeline
Professional Singing Debut
Begins singing professionally; gains local popularity.
Apartheid Documentary Appearance
Appears in *Come Back, Africa*, highlighting apartheid's brutality.
Exile from South Africa
Forced into exile for anti-apartheid stance.
Grammy Award
Wins Grammy with Harry Belafonte; international recognition.
Controversial Marriage
Marries Stokely Carmichael; faces backlash in USA.
Returns to South Africa
Returns after apartheid ends; celebrated as a hero.
Death on Stage
Passes away while performing in Italy.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026