Miriam Makeba, also known as "Mama Africa," was a South African singer and civil rights activist who came to prominence in the 1960s. Known for her distinctive blending of traditional African music with jazz and folk, she used her platform to raise global awareness about apartheid. Her influential works include the Grammy-winning album "An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba" and the hit single "Pata Pata." Makeba's significant contribution to music and activism has cemented her legacy in the annals of music history.