The Best of Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte, the civil rights and entertainment giant who began as an actor and singer and became an activist and humanitarian, has died at the age of 96.

Belafonte was one of the first black performers to gain a wide following on film and sell a million records as a singer.

Many still know him for his signature hit Banana Boat Song (Day-O) and its call of: “Day-O! Daaaaay-O.”

But he forged a greater legacy once he scaled back his performing career in the 1960s and lived out his hero Paul Robeson’s decree that artists are “gatekeepers of truth”.

He stands as the model and the epitome of the celebrity activist.

In celebration of his great musical talent, we’re looking back at some of his best songs through the years. Are any of your favourites on our list?

Island in the Sun

 Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)

Jump in the Line

 Man Smart (Woman Smarter) 

Scarlet Ribbons

Mary’s Boy Child

Which is your favourite?