Zimbabwean fans of the late Miriam Makeba will soon be able to remember 'Mama Afrika' by listening to her last CD. "Miriam Makeba: The Legend" is a compilation album, featuring the well known performer's most beloved songs. The 14-track CD was released just 3 weeks before her death in Italy on November 2008. Voice of America English to Africa Service reporter Derek Moyo says that since her death, Miriam Makeba's latest -- and last -- CD has sold out in music stores across South Africa.
Makeba was born in Johannesburg in 1932. She began her musical career with the Manhatten brothers in 1950's and became the first African musician to win a Grammy award. Another rare gem on the CD is the 1966 Brazilian classic "Chove Chuva". The CD also features Makeba's rendition of Sergio Mendez's world famous "Masquenada".
During her life Makeba also often sang about the injustices in the world, including apartheid which she denounced. Her testimony to the United Nations in 1963 resulted in her South African citizenship being revoked.
The CD also features a track about the struggle, titled "Aluta Continua". Other songs on the CD include the hits Pata Pata, Click Song, Masakhane, Jolinkomo and the Pata Pata 2000 remix.
The CD is being distributed by the African Cream Music label.
Zenzile Miriam Makeba is survived by her grandchildren Nelson Lumumba Lee and Zenzi Monique Lee, and her great- grandchildren Lindelani, Ayanda and Kwame.
For more information on the album log ontowww.africancreammusic.co.za