Story behind the famous song ‘Makeba’

Instagram and TikTok users have most likely come across the song “Makeba” by singer and songwriter Jain. The song, released in 2015, has resurfaced on the internet and gained popularity as background music for various types of videos, including fashion, sports, travel, and dance videos on TikTok and Instagram. In the song, Jain sings: “I want to see you sing. I want to see you fight. Because you are the real beauty of human right. Oooh, Makeba, Makeba ma qué bella!” Bu who is the real Makeba?

The song “Makeba” is a tribute to iconic South African singer and civil rights activist Miriam Makeba. Commonly known as Mama Africa, Makeba was a South African singer, songwriter, and activist. Born on March 4, 1932, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Makeba became one of the most renowned and influential African musicians of the 20th century.

Makeba’s music was a fusion of traditional South African rhythms, jazz, and Afro-pop. She sang in various South African languages, including Xhosa, Zulu, and Sotho, as well as in English. Her songs often carried powerful messages about social justice, human rights, and the struggle against apartheid.

One of her most famous songs, “Pata Pata”, released in 1957, became a worldwide hit. The upbeat and catchy song was an anthem of joy and resilience, celebrating the joy of dancing and community spirit in the face of adversity.

However, Makeba's activism and outspokenness against apartheid came with consequences. In 1960, the South African government banned her music and revoked her citizenship after she spoke out against the Sharpeville Massacre, where police killed peaceful protesters.

Following her exile from South Africa, Makeba continued to use her music to advocate for the end of apartheid and racial injustice. She collaborated with artists like Harry Belafonte, expanding her reach and influence. She sang about the struggles of black South Africans, the pain of exile, and the hope for a free and equal South Africa.

In 1986, Makeba released the album “Sangoma”, which incorporated traditional African sounds and spirituality. The song “Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika” (God Bless Africa), which was later adopted as part of South Africa's national anthem, became a powerful anthem for freedom during the anti-apartheid movement.

Makeba's activism also extended beyond her music. She addressed the United Nations General Assembly in 1963, passionately advocating for sanctions against South Africa to isolate the apartheid regime. She also lent her voice to support the civil rights movement in the United States, performing at events alongside civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In 1990, with the end of apartheid and Nelson Mandela's release from prison, Makeba was finally able to return to South Africa after more than three decades in exile. She performed at Mandela's homecoming concert and continued her activism for various causes, including HIV/AIDS awareness and refugee rights.

Makeba's life and music are a testament to the power of art and activism to create change and inspire people around the world. Her legacy as Mama Africa, a fearless singer and tireless advocate for justice and equality, continues to inspire generations to stand up against injustice and fight for a better world.