As much as Jackson is responsible for the highest-selling album of all time on vinyl, trailblazers came before him that made his achievements possible. Regardless of the era, selling one million copies of an album is an incredible accomplishment, and Harry Belafonte was the first to make chart history in this regard. Belafonte’s feat came in 1956, a decade before copies of Pet Sounds or Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band rested on the shelves of houses across the land.

On August 26, 2024, the Diaspora African Forum (DAF) commemorated the late American singer, actor, and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte by inscribing his name onto the iconic Sankofa Wall.The iconic Sankofa Wall, a symbol of Ghana’s rich history and the Diaspora’s connection to the motherland was further adorned with the name of the legendary American figure. The mountain ceremony, held at the DAF Embassy in Cantonment, Accra, was attended by dignitaries including the daughter of the beloved icon Gina Belafonte and the convening Founder and Head of Mission of the Diaspora African Forum (DAF), H. E. AMB Dr. Erieka Bennett.

The Recording Academy has renamed its two-year-old Best Song for Social Change Special Merit Award in honor of the late Harry Belafonte, who was a powerful voice for social justice throughout his career. “The greatness of Harry Belafonte’s artistic legacy is matched by his profound impact of furthering social justice for all,” Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, said in a statement. “We are honored to recognize his lasting influence with the Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award and to continue celebrating works that have inspired global communities towards social impact.” “The Belafonte estate is deeply honored and thrilled that the Recording Academy’s Best Song for Social Change Award will now be named the Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award,” said Belafonte’s daughters Adrienne, Shari and Gina and his third wife, Pamela, in a joint statement. “This recognition not only celebrates Harry Belafonte’s enduring legacy in music and activism, but also inspires future generations to continue using their voices and art for justice and positive change.”

Christiane Amanpour speaks with Aloe Blacc and Carmen Perez-Jordan, who were mentored by the legendary Harry Belafonte and feature in the documentary "Following Harry", which showcases the last 12 years of Belafonte's life.

Harry Belafonte acted. Harry Belafonte sang. But Belafonte was more than an entertainer. Two stories tell how important he was to the civil rights movement. He spent the 1950s building his singing and acting careers. He spent time in the 1960s singing, acting and fighting for civil rights. He was the first African American to host a late-night show. His guest list was varied. It included politicians, civil rights leaders, actors, singers and comedians. Many of the discussions were about the issues of the day.