Mr. Harry Belafonte: A Life of Artistry, Activism, and Advocacy

Mr. Belafonte was so much more than a singer!

Photo Credit: Britannica

Issue #312 American History May 2, 2023

This article is a little longer than usual, and I wrote this article under my bi-weekly topic of American History because, in my opinion, Harry Belafonte was a very large part of American History since the 1940s.

Also, you will notice that throughout this article, I refer to Harry Belafonte as “Mr. Belafonte.” That is intentional.

Harry Belafonte, was born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. on March 1, 1927, in New York City. Known for his distinct voice and charisma, Belafonte's career spanned over seven decades, during which he won numerous awards for his music and acting.

As a committed civil rights activist, Mr. Belafonte has played a significant role in championing social justice and providing financial support to leaders and organizations within the movement.

Mr. Belafonte died in New York City on April 25, 2023. He was 96 years old.

Early Life and Musical Career

Born to immigrant parents from Jamaica, Mr. Belafonte spent part of his childhood in Jamaica before returning to New York City. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and after his discharge, he pursued a career in theater and music. In the 1950s, Belafonte rose to fame with his signature blend of Caribbean folk music, jazz, and blues, which earned him the moniker "King of Calypso."

Mr. Belafonte's 1956 album, "Calypso," featuring the hit single "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)," was the first LP to sell over a million copies. Throughout his career, Belafonte has been honored with three Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, and a Kennedy Center Honor in 1989 for his contributions to American culture.

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Acting Career and Television Appearances

Mr. Belafonte pursued a successful acting career. His first notable film role was in "Carmen Jones" (1954), followed by roles in "Island in the Sun" (1957), "The World, the Flesh, and the Devil" (1959), and "Odds Against Tomorrow" (1959). Mr. Belafonte's performance in "Odds Against Tomorrow" earned him the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the 1960 Berlin International Film Festival.

Mr. Belafonte also appeared on television, starring in the Emmy Award-winning special "Tonight with Belafonte" (1959) and hosting the variety show "The Belafonte Folk Singers" (1960). In 1968, he made history as the first Black person to host a late-night talk show, when he guest-hosted "The Tonight Show" for one week.

Civil Rights Work and Philanthropy

Mr. Belafonte's commitment to civil rights and social justice has been a defining aspect of his life. A close friend and supporter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mr. Belafonte played a pivotal role in financing the civil rights movement, providing funds for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and other organizations. Mr. Belafonte also helped organize the 1963 March on Washington and played a key role in the "Freedom Rides" in the early 1960s.

In 1965, Belafonte organized a group of celebrities, including Sidney Poitier, Marlon Brando, and Charlton Heston, to participate in the Selma-to-Montgomery marches. After Dr. King's assassination in 1968, Belafonte provided financial assistance to King's family and continued to support their efforts to carry on his legacy.

Mr. Belafonte also co-founded the non-profit organization Sankofa, which promotes social justice and cultural preservation through art and advocacy.

In 1985, he participated in the recording of the charity single "We Are the World" for USA for Africa, which raised funds for famine relief in Ethiopia.

Mr. Belafonte also served as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, advocating for children's rights worldwide.

Awards and Recognitions for Activism

Mr. Belafonte has received numerous awards and honors. In 2013, he received the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP for outstanding achievement by an African American. The same year, he was awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Governors Awards.

In 2017, the prestigious Marian Anderson Award was presented to Mr. Belafonte for his lifelong commitment to civil rights and humanitarian causes.

Legacy and Impact

Mr. Belafonte's success as an artist and activist paved the way for generations of Black performers and creatives who came after him. He has served as a role model and inspiration for many, including prominent artists like Sidney Poitier, Quincy Jones, and Oprah Winfrey.

Mr. Harry Belafonte led an extraordinary life that spans music, acting, television, and civil rights activism. His numerous awards and recognitions, both for his artistry and his work in advocating for social justice, are a testament to his impact on American culture and society.

Did you learn something new about Mr. Belafonte? Let us know in the Substack Notes feature.

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