Mama Africa: Miriam Makeba — Crandell Theatre Virtual Cinema

Miriam Makeba (1932–2008), who brought the music of sub-Saharan Africa to the world led a most extraordinary and influential life, and although she died only twelve years ago (in the middle of a benefit concert), it is time to celebrate her once more. Rising from the misery of South African apartheid to performing on concert stages the world over, Makeba — a protégé of Harry Belafonte and was married to, among others, Hugh Maskela and Stokley Carmichael — gave a powerful voice to the oppressed. This recent documentary by Mika Kaurismaki does her major talent and indomitable spirit justice.