Harry Belafonte, 96, Barrier-Breaking Singer, Actor, and Activist, passes away.

Harry Belafonte, the legendary musician, actor, and civil rights activist, has passed away at the age of 96. Belafonte was a trailblazer who used his platform to speak out against racism and injustice, and his impact on American culture cannot be overstated.

Born in Harlem in 1927, Belafonte began his career as a singer in the 1950s, rising to fame with hits like "The Banana Boat Song" and "Jamaica Farewell." But he was more than just a talented musician; he was a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice.

Belafonte worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and was a key figure in the civil rights movement. He helped organize the March on Washington in 1963, and he used his celebrity to bring attention to important causes throughout his life.

In addition to his activism, Belafonte was also an accomplished actor, appearing in films like "Carmen Jones" and "Island in the Sun." He was the first Black performer to win an Emmy, and he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kennedy Center in 1989.

Belafonte's impact on American culture was profound. He was a barrier-breaking artist who paved the way for generations of musicians and activists who followed in his footsteps. He was also a beloved figure who will be deeply missed by his fans and colleagues.

In a statement, Belafonte's family said, "Harry Belafonte was not only a gifted artist and entertainer, he was a social activist and humanitarian whose passion for justice and equality inspired people all over the world. We will miss him deeply, but his legacy will live on through his music, his films, and his activism."

Rest in peace, Harry Belafonte. Your contributions to our world will never be forgotten.