Harry Belafonte, the legendary singer, actor, and civil rights activist, has passed away at the age of 96, leaving behind an incredible legacy of music and activism.

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Harry Belafonte, the legendary singer, actor, and civil rights activist, has passed away at the age of 96. Belafonte left an indelible mark on the world with his music and activism, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. In this article, we will look at the five best songs of Harry Belafonte.

• Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)

One of the most iconic songs of the 20th century, Day-O is an upbeat Caribbean folk song that was made famous by Harry Belafonte. The song features Belafonte’s signature vocal style and infectious rhythm, and its catchy chorus has made it a timeless classic.

• Jamaica Farewell

Another beloved song from Belafonte’s catalog is Jamaica Farewell. The song tells the story of a man who is leaving Jamaica and bidding farewell to the island he loves. With its beautiful melody and poignant lyrics, Jamaica Farewell has become a staple of Caribbean music.

• Matilda

Matilda is a fun and playful calypso song that tells the story of a woman who takes advantage of a man’s generosity. The song features Belafonte’s charismatic vocals and a lively, upbeat rhythm that will get you dancing.

• Turn the World Around

Turn the World Around is a soulful and uplifting song that encourages people to come together and create a better world. The song’s powerful lyrics and soaring vocals make it a true anthem of hope and unity.

• Jump in the Line

Jump in the Line is a lively and infectious song that showcases Belafonte’s range as a performer. The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful energy will have you dancing in no time.

Harry Belafonte was born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York City. He grew up in poverty, and his parents were Jamaican immigrants. Despite these challenges, Belafonte showed an early talent for music and began performing in nightclubs in the 1940s.

Belafonte’s breakthrough came in 1952, when he released his debut album, Calypso. The album featured the hit song Day-O (The Banana Boat Song), which became a global sensation. The album also made Belafonte the first artist to sell over one million copies of an LP.

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Throughout his career, Belafonte used his platform to advocate for social justice and civil rights. He was a close friend of Martin Luther King Jr. and played a key role in organizing the March on Washington in 1963. Belafonte also bankrolled numerous initiatives to bring civil rights to Black Americans, including the Freedom Rides and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.

In addition to his activism, Belafonte was also a successful actor. He won a Tony award in 1954 for his performance in the Broadway musical John Murray Anderson’s Almanac, and went on to appear in numerous feature films, including Island in the Sun and Carmen Jones.