Miriam Makeba Biography, Age, Husband, Net Worth Quit It The Click Song
Miriam Makeba was a renowned South African singer, songwriter, actress, and civil rights activist, often referred to as “Mama Africa.” She was celebrated for her powerful voice, pioneering spirit, and dedication to human rights. Through her music and activism, Makeba became a global icon, representing African heritage, dignity, and the struggle against apartheid. Some information you may find here include; Miriam Makeba Biography, Age, Husband, Net Worth, Quit It, The Click Song.
Biography:
- Full Name: Zenzile Miriam Makeba
- Date of Birth: March 4, 1932
- Place of Birth: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Date of Death: November 9, 2008
- Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Activist
Miriam Makeba was born in Johannesburg and grew up in poverty, experiencing the hardships of apartheid from a young age. Her love for music was nurtured early on, and she joined a choir at school, which laid the foundation for her future career. She started singing professionally in the 1950s with South African jazz group The Manhattan Brothers and later formed her own band, The Skylarks, blending jazz, African melodies, and traditional sounds.
Husbands:
Miriam Makeba had a few notable relationships, some of which caused considerable controversy due to her prominence and the political implications of her marriages. Her most significant relationships include:
- James Kubay: Makeba’s first marriage was to James Kubay, a fellow South African musician. The relationship ended in divorce, and she later referred to it as an unhappy marriage, especially due to Kubay’s disapproval of her performing career.
- Hugh Masekela: Makeba married legendary South African trumpeter and jazz musician Hugh Masekela in 1964. Both were internationally known musicians and advocates for South Africa’s liberation. Their relationship didn’t last long, but they remained close friends and collaborators after their divorce.
- Stokely Carmichael (Kwame Ture): Makeba’s marriage to American civil rights activist and Black Panther leader Stokely Carmichael in 1968 was highly publicized and controversial. Their union caused a backlash in the United States, with many music promoters and venues canceling her shows due to Carmichael’s association with the Black Power movement. As a result, the couple moved to Guinea, where they were welcomed by President Ahmed Sékou Touré and became significant figures in African political activism. They divorced in 1978, though Makeba continued to live in Guinea for some time.
Net Worth:
Miriam Makeba’s net worth at the time of her passing in 2008 is estimated to have about $1 million and $2 million Rands. Although she earned well during her career, her wealth fluctuated due to her years in exile, limited commercial endorsements, and politically motivated restrictions on her performances in the United States. Her royalties, music sales, and performances allowed her to support herself and contribute to causes she cared deeply about, despite facing political and economic challenges.
About “The Click Song”:
“The Click Song,” also known by its Xhosa title, “Qongqothwane,” is one of Miriam Makeba’s most famous songs. The song’s title refers to the unique clicking sounds present in Xhosa, her native language. In the song, Makeba demonstrates the distinctive Xhosa click sounds, which became a recognizable element of her music worldwide. The song is traditional and celebratory, often performed at weddings to bring good fortune.
Makeba explained that English speakers found it difficult to pronounce the name “Qongqothwane,” so she referred to it as “The Click Song” for broader audiences. The song celebrates African culture, linguistic diversity, and the musicality of indigenous African languages. It became an anthem of African pride and identity, especially as Makeba performed it globally, bringing Xhosa sounds and South African traditions to international stages.
About “Quit It”:
“Quit It” is a politically charged song that Makeba recorded in the 1970s. It was written as a powerful message against the injustices of apartheid, particularly aimed at addressing systemic racial inequalities and abuses in South Africa. In this song, Makeba’s lyrics are direct and bold, calling out the oppressive practices of apartheid and encouraging people to “quit” the prejudice, racism, and hatred that divided communities.
The song reflects Makeba’s role as not only a musician but also a vocal anti-apartheid activist. “Quit It” was one of her many efforts to raise awareness about the struggles faced by Black South Africans and to inspire listeners around the world to join the fight against apartheid. Its release further solidified Makeba’s image as a “voice for the voiceless” and a figure of resistance and empowerment in the African diaspora.
International Success:
Makeba’s big break came when she appeared in the anti-apartheid documentary Come Back, Africa (1959), which caught the attention of international audiences. In 1959, she left South Africa to perform in Europe and eventually moved to the United States, where she became the first African musician to gain worldwide acclaim. Her popularity soared with hits like “Pata Pata,” “The Click Song,” and “Malaika.”
Activism and Exile:
While in the U.S., Makeba used her platform to speak out against apartheid. She testified before the United Nations in 1963, urging global leaders to impose sanctions on South Africa. In retaliation, the South African government revoked her citizenship and banned her music in her homeland, forcing her into exile for more than 30 years.
Throughout her career, Makeba used her music and influence to campaign for human rights, advocating for the oppressed, particularly against apartheid in South Africa. Her stance made her a powerful figure in the civil rights movement, and she became closely associated with political activists, including Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.
Return to Africa:
In the 1980s, Makeba returned to Africa, where she lived in several countries, including Guinea and later Zambia. She continued performing, advocating for human rights, and calling for an end to apartheid. She returned to South Africa in 1990 after Nelson Mandela’s release from prison and resumed her career, finally performing for audiences in her homeland.
Legacy and Death:
Makeba passed away on November 9, 2008, after a performance in Italy, where she suffered a heart attack. Her legacy endures as one of the greatest African musicians of all time and a fierce activist for justice. She received numerous honors during her lifetime, including the Grammy Award for Best Folk Recording in 1965 (shared with Harry Belafonte), and posthumously, she remains a symbol of African pride and resilience.
Influence:
Miriam Makeba’s contributions went beyond music; she left an indelible mark on global civil rights and African heritage. Through her courage, her unforgettable voice, and her powerful messages, she continues to inspire musicians, activists, and people around the world to fight for equality and justice. Her work helped pave the way for African artists on the global stage, making her a true icon and forever known as “Mama Africa.”