Harry Belafonte, Iconic Singer And Son Of Harlem, Dead At 96

HARLEM, NY — Harry Belafonte, the legendary actor, singer and activist, died Tuesday morning at the age of 96 in his New York City home, the New York Times and AP News reported.

The cause of his death was congestive heart failure, a spokesperson confirmed to multiple publications.

Belafonte, born in Harlem, was one of the first Black performers to see widespread popularity across the United States with his songs "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" and "Jamaica Farewell."

His album "Calypso" released in 1956 remained at the top of the Billboard album chart for 31 weeks, and helped popularize Caribbean style music in the United States.

"The death of Harry Belafonte is a tremendous loss for us all," Joy Bivins, director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, said in a statement. "Mr. Belafonte was a cultural icon whose impact on Black history was far-reaching, from his legendary contributions as an artist to his human and civil rights activism. His legacy will burn bright for generations to come."

While music and acting remained a central part of Belafonte's life, his commitment to civil rights and his work as an activist became his greatest focus.

He was friends and worked closely with Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., AP news reported. He took part in the March on Washington in 1963, and donated his own money to the family after King was assassinated, the New York Times added.

In the beginning portion of his life, Belafonte spent time living in both New York City and Jamaica.

He eventually attended George Washington High School in Upper Manhattan, before joining the Navy and serving during World War II.

Throughout his career in the arts, Belafonte won three Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, a Tony Award, and received the Kennedy Center Honors.

In 2022, he became the oldest ever person to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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