Hello Braapers (Be Ready And Act Promptly)
There is no easy way to address losing an icon.
I am no expert on the life and works of Harry Belafonte so was very pleased to read many touching and interesting tributes in my Facebook newsfeed. I particularly appreciated Lloyd Brown's words as he painted an overall picture of a man who was easy to relate to whilst mentioning key factors such as Harry's incredible talent and dedication to the Civil Rights Movement. And just in case you're unaware, Lloyd is a pretty legendary Reggae singer himself who is based here in the UK.
New York Reggae singer Toussaint Webb, AKA Laury Webb, also posted a tribute to 'Missa B' as he called Harry Belafonte when they met many years ago. Evidently during the 90's, when living on the Upper West Side, Touissant met many celebrities going about their daily business, Harry Belafonte included. Toussaint shared a beautiful story about their encounter which just confirms what a lovely personality 'Missa B' had. To be famous and have time for people is so important and a lesson some celebrities could benefit from. Touissant describes Harry Belafonte as patient and kind which is something all of us can aspire to.
Having said that, I'm not about to give any sort of bio or refer to Harry's lifetime achievements- others can do so far more knowledgeably. What I wish to speak about is the Banana Boat Song and place it within a relatable context. I grew up with this and many more of Harry's songs. As is so often the case I had no clue as to the artist- sometimes you hear a song, sing it and it remains with you for ever more... the same can be said for Island In The Sun and There's a Hole In My Bucket- which I found pretty hilarious. All of these are brilliant songs which have achieved longevity.
The call to action in the Banana Boat Song outstrips anything we hear these days and was used at the end of the night shift when dock workers wanted their batches of bananas counted so they could go home. The call has a very serious purpose and reflects the needs of these extremely hard working and, no doubt, poorly paid people. When Harry sings these two striking opening words, 'Day-O,' they resonate deeply within me, having a similar effect to the soul wrenching vibes that are embedded within Negro Spirituals. Songs such as 'Steal Away,' (this is the way it is best sung!) 'Swing Low Sweet Chariot' and 'Wade in the Water' have a similar magnetism about them, often transcending into positive vibrations that uplift the spirit as the music progresses; signifying people's underlying determination to remain strong, win their inner battle and celebrate. This pattern is clearly evident in the Banana Boat Song which bursts into full Calypso, capturing people with its vibrancy and successfully ranking #5 on the Billboard chart in 1975. In the live version shared above you can feel its popularity as the audience anticipate and respond to Harry's direction and quite charisma. You can also detect enjoyment amongst the band and backing singers who literally take the tune away and run with it. This may not be the first version of The Banana Boat Song but it is unequivocally the best.
Now is a good time to mention a couple of highly significant yet very different songs that also reflect the struggle for equality which, sadly, remains to this day. Firstly, The Israelites, Desmond Dekker and the Aces, painting a very clear picture similar to the Banana Boat Song and 'Something Inside So Strong'- Labi Siffre, tackling racism directly and speaking about igniting the inner flame that raises people up above those who are attempting to bring them down.
I mentioned Swing Low Sweet Chariot which has been covered many, many times and I have chosen to share this version by talented Johnny Cash who adds to the story by way of an intro and sings it in a style which I imagine Harry Belafonte would truly appreciate; so let's play it now and send eternal blessings Harry's way in recognition of his dedication to humanity and the wonderful gifts he shared with us, making a difference to so many lives.
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Jaz McKenzie~ The Word Magician
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