Mama Africa: The Very Best Of Miriam Makeba CD

Along with Harry Belafonte, Makeba is an early icon of black identity, and her outspoken views gained her as much attention as her music. But one thing that MAMA AFRICA emphasizes is how consistent and appealing Makeba remained as a singer and a synthesizer of styles. This is a fine overview of this vibrant and enduring cultural legend.

Excellent compilation from the most important female vocalist to emerge out of South Africa. She originally came to prominence with the Manhattan Brothers before leaving to play with her own all-female group the Skylarks. In 1958 she took on the female lead in the self-styled Jazz opera ' King Kong' which electrified both black and white audiences with its rough township story and made a star of Miriam.At the height of her fame, however, Miriam left South Africa for America. There she quickly re-established her career but her outspoken views on apartheid and subsequent marriage to black activist Stokeley Carmichael greatly irritated the South African government who revoked her citizenship and right to return to her homeland. With the collapse of apartheid and the election of Nelson Mandela, however, Miriam Makeba returned to South Africa in 1990 and played her first concert there in 30 years in 1991.This is an essential selection from South Africa's most important female vocalist. It includes her most celebrated songs 'Pata Pata' and 'The Click Song'. This beautifully packaged CD, includes comprehensive notes on Miriam's life and her music.

This 25-song set spans a hefty chunk of Miriam Makeba's career, reaching back to the 1950s and moving up through the '60s and '70s. Represented here are Makeba's recording with the Manhattan Brothers, as well as her acclaimed solo work, which blends American popular styles with indigenous African sounds.

Personnel: Miriam Makeba (vocals).