The world is reeling with the shocking news of the passing away of the legendary icon Miriam Makeba. Affectionately known to the world as Mama Africa, Miriam Makeba passed away early on Monday morning, shortly after performing in Italy. The first time I learnt about the sad news was yesterday as CNN ran their afternoon headlines.
The early and late evening local broadcast stations also ran the story yesterday, with a full coverage on Morning Live this morning. It is such a sad time for the music fraternity and the world at large. Mama Africa will always be remembered not only for her timeless music, but for her endless goodwill efforts throughout the world. I'm glad I had a brief glimpse into her life as a performer when I saw her doing her final public appearance at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival last year. The packed to capacity venue proved her iconic and legendary status as thousands of music revellers sang along to every tune she belted out.
I also have a fond memory of her rare live DVD that was recorded in 1966 at Ben's in Stolkholm, which I presented to Bab' Themba Mkhize for his 50th birthday last year. He was very excited to get such a gift, even moreso because he is related to Mama Africa by law (Bab' Themba Mkhize's eldest son is married to Mama Africa's granddaughter and singer Zenzile).
Mama Africa, we will always treasure and cherish the legacy of universal love you have bestowed upon us. May God bless you with the peace you deserve as you become one of His Angels up above. Our condolenses goes to the Makeba family and relatives, as well as close friends.
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