Harry Belafonte

What bands were prominent in the 1950s that had underappreciated black musicians? Well, Harry Belafonte is a prominent black musician from the 1940s who reputedly began his career as a New York club singer in order to pay for acting school. In his first public engagement as a vocalist, he was backed up by the Charlie Parker ensemble. This ensemble included not only Parker but also Max Roach and Miles Davis, the genius. He is best known for his recording of "Matilda" for RCA Victor in 1952, four years before his first album, "Calypso." The "Banana Boat Song," from which the party cry day-yo, day-yo was created, became a smash on the album's release. As a result, it was the first record, or LP in those days, to sell over a million copies.

Before you continue reading about the Top 10 African American Musicians of the 1950s: Black History Musicians, we have special news to make. Catalogs.com has secured discounted Medicare pricing for our thriving senior community. If you are over the age of 60, you may visit our Seniors Health Section, which is packed with Medicare information. To possibly save hundreds of dollars on your Medicare costs, all you need is your zip code and a few minutes of your time.

Genres: Calypso, mento, pop, folk, world