Harry Belafonte

Biography

Harry Belafonte is an American singer, actor, and activist known for his significant contributions to music and social justice. He was a pioneering figure in popularizing Caribbean music, particularly Jamaican mento and Calypso, to a global audience in the 1950s. His landmark album, Calypso, released in 1956, became the first million-selling LP by a single artist, establishing him as a leading figure in the music industry. In addition to his musical career, Belafonte has been a prominent civil rights activist, using his platform to advocate for social change and humanitarian causes. His influence extends beyond music, as he has engaged in various philanthropic efforts and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the arts and society. Belafonte's legacy continues to resonate in both the entertainment world and the fight for equality.