It was in 1977 that I first saw Miriam Makeba perform.  I was in Lagos, Nigeria at the 2nd World Festival of African Arts and Culture (FESTAC)where she, in a command performance for the twenty-plus African heads-of- state attending from across the continent,  held court as regally as any queen I had ever seen.  Those men did not have a chance that evening as each offered her citizenship in their respective countries.

This warrior/woman, who  exiled from her native South Africa during apartheid, dedicated her life to the fight for human rights.  She leaves behind a vast legacy of political courage,  feminine strength, grace and indigenous beauty.  Long before Michelle Obama and much like Nina Simone,  Makeba was for me and other black women a role model.

I remember the lyrics of her popular song...Pata,  Pata (Touch, Touch).  Makeba did just that.  She touched people across the globe with the flash from her fiery eyes and her seductive finesse and powerful lyrics on stage.  Her voice told the story of freedom...prophesied even of  a day when  a black man would leave Robbin Island and command worlwide  respect and another would be elected President in America.   

And now, finally the lioness sleeps tonight.  Goodbye Mama Africa. Rest.  Well done.  I will remember you and the  power and poise in your prophetic voice.