Miriam Makeba, who departed this life in 2008, was much more than just a singer. She was a political activist who used her gifts to bring the plight of her mother country, South Africa, to the world. When Paul Simon controversially broke the global cultural embargo to record 'Graceland' in the mid Eighties, she assisted him, reasoning that it kept South Africa's problems in the headlines and in the world's debating chambers - even though she was accused of being a traitor to the cause. This combination of ethics, practicality and a wonderful singing voice earned her over the years the unofficial honour of Empress of African Song or, more simply Mama Africa. Sadly she had many tragedies to overcome in her personal life, but this only served to push her to further heights. This compilation illustrates the early musical chapters of a fascinating life.