Discover Harry Belafonte's net worth and the financial landscape that shaped his career. From his earnings as a renowned artist to his strategic investments and charitable contributions, this overview captures the essence of Belafonte's economic impact. Join us in peeling back the financial veil on cultural icons.
Quick facts
| fact | detail |
|---|---|
| real name | Harold George Belanfanti Jr. |
| popular name | Harry Belafonte |
| gender | male |
| date of birth | March 1, 1927 – April 25, 2023 |
| age | 1996 |
| parents | Harold Sr. and Melvin Beranfanti |
| brothers and sisters | not applicable |
| place of birth | Harlem, New York State, USA |
| Country of Citizenship | USA |
| Race | jamaica |
| educate | The New School, George Washington Educational Campus, Walmer School |
| marital status | Married |
| sexual orientation | straight |
| wife/spouse | Pamela Frank (married 2008–2023), Julie Robinson (married 1957–2004), Margaret Belafonte (married 1948–1957) |
| children | Sally, David, Gina, Adrienne |
| Dating | not applicable |
| net worth | US$30 million |
| school | Calypso, mento, pop, folk, world |
| Active for several years | 1948–2023 |
| source of wealth | music, performance, activism |
| high | 5 feet 11 inches (1.82 m) |
What is Harry Belafonte's net worth in 2024?
Harry Belafonte's net worth at the time of his death was $30 million. His wealth has been accumulated through a multi-faceted career in music, film and activism. Let's compare Belafonte's career with other important figures:
Belafonte's impact on the entertainment industry and his activism contributed greatly to his financial success, making him one of the highest-paid pop singers of his time.
Harry Belafonte Financial Overview
Early life and background
Harry Belafonte was born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York City. His parents, Harold Sr. and Melvine Bellanfanti, were immigrants from Jamaica.
Belafonte's early years, split between New York and Jamaica, shaped his cultural influences. He attended George Washington High School and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. His passion for the performing arts was ignited after attending the American Negro Theater.
Fame and career breakthroughs
Belafonte began her career as a club singer in New York, performing to pay for acting lessons. His breakthrough came with the 1956 album Calypso, which included hits such as Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) and “Jamaica Farewell.” The album was the first to sell more than one million copies in a year and brought him international fame.
Music career and income
During the 1950s and 1960s, Belafonte's music career flourished. He signed with RCA Victor and released many successful albums. His performances were highly sought after, making him the highest-paid black performer of the era.
Belafonte also dabbled in a variety of musical genres, including blues, folk, gospel and show tunes. His album An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba, a collaboration with South African singer Miriam Makeba, won a Grammy Award.
Film career and contributions
Belafonte made her acting debut in the 1953 film “The Road to Light,” co-starring Dorothy Dandridge. In 1954, they reunited for Carmen Jones.
His other notable films include “Isle in the Sun” and “Tomorrow's Odds.” In later years, Belafonte appeared in BlacKkKlansman and other major films, demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
Awards and recognition
Throughout his career, Belafonte received numerous accolades. He has won three Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.
He also won an Emmy Award for “Revlon Review: Tonight with Belafonte” and a Tony Award for John Murray Anderson's “Almanac.” His contributions to the arts have been recognized by the Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts.
Philanthropy and Activism
Belafonte was deeply involved in the civil rights movement, working closely with Martin Luther King. Anti-apartheid movement.
As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Belafonte supports many humanitarian causes, with a focus on child poverty and HIV/AIDS awareness.
real estate investment
Belafonte's real estate investments include acquiring a building on Manhattan's West Side Avenue and converting it into a co-op. The building became a center of civil rights activity, hosting such famous figures as Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy.
In addition, Belafonte owned a property in the Caribbean that was sold in 2005.
FAQs about Harry Belafonte Hotel
Harry Belafonte's most famous song?
Harry Belafonte's most famous songs include “Day-O” (“Banana Boat Song”), “Jamaica Goodbye”, “Jum in the Line” (“Shake, Senora”) and “Mary's Boy Child”. These hits popularized calypso music around the world.
How did he contribute to the civil rights movement?
Belafonte provided financial assistance to Martin Luther King, organized fundraisers, and participated in important protests and marches.
What awards has he received?
Belafonte received three Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, a Tony Award, a Kennedy Center Honor, the National Medal of the Arts, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Gene Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
How did Calypso make history?
Belafonte's 1956 album Calypso was the first record by a single artist to sell more than 1 million copies, introducing Calypso music to American audiences.
What role does he play in the movie?
Belafonte has starred in films including “Carmen Jones,” “Island in the Sun,” “Tomorrow's Odds” and “BlacKkKlansman.” He also produced and scored the musical film “Beat Street.”
How did his early life influence his career?
Belafonte was born into a Jamaican family in Harlem, and his experience serving in Jamaica and the U.S. Navy during World War II shaped his career as an artist and activist.
What genres has he performed in?
Belafonte performed in a variety of styles, including calypso, blues, folk, gospel, show tunes and American standards.
in conclusion
Harry Belafonte's financial story is as fascinating as his music. Any thoughts on his philanthropy or professional income? Share your thoughts in the comments, engage with us on social media, or discover more at racelparris.com. Your insights enrich our community! Thank you for reading.