An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba cover

An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba

Miriam Makeba · 1965

33 min · 12 tracks · jazz · African popular music · township music

A vibrant tapestry of African rhythms and jazz-infused melodies celebrating culture and resilience.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its role in promoting African music globally during a time of heightened political awareness regarding apartheid in South Africa. The track 'Beware, Verwoerd!' directly addressed the injustices of apartheid, making it a powerful protest anthem that resonated widely and contributed to discussions around racial equality.
Career context
In 1965, Miriam Makeba was at a pivotal moment in her career, having gained international fame after her participation in the civil rights movement and her landmark album 'Pata Pata.' 'An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba' showcased her collaboration with Harry Belafonte, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon while also emphasizing African music on a global stage.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Train Song (Mbombela) 3:08
  • 2 In the Land of the Zulus (KwaZulu) 2:30
  • 3 Hush, Hush (Thula, thula) 3:03
  • 4 To Those We Love (Nongqongqo) 2:15
  • 5 Give Us Our Land (Mabayeke) 2:27
  • 6 Beware, Verwoerd! (Ndodemnyama) Standout 2:05
  • 7 Gone Are My Children (Baile banake) Standout 2:47
  • 8 Hurry, Mama, Hurry! (Khawuleza) 3:25
  • 9 My Angel (Malaika) Standout 3:12
  • 10 Cannon (Mbayi, mbayi) 2:47
  • 11 Lullaby (Thula sthandwa same) 2:46
  • 12 Show Me the Way, My Brother (Iph’indlela) 3:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata