Miriam Makeba, affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” was a South African singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist whose powerful voice carried the spirit of a continent to the world stage. Rising to fame in the 1950s, she blended traditional African melodies with jazz and folk influences, creating a groundbreaking sound that transcended borders. Banned from her homeland for opposing apartheid, Makeba used her music as a tool for freedom and unity. A Grammy Award winner and global icon, her legacy continues to inspire generations with its message of resilience and cultural pride.