Makeba began her professional musical career with the Cuban Brothers, a South African all-male close harmony group, with whom she sang covers of popular American songs. Soon afterward, at the age of 21, she joined a jazz group, the Manhattan Brothers, who sang a mixture of South African songs and pieces from popular African-American groups.
Miriam Makeba grandchildren: Meet Nelson Lumumba Lee, Zenzi Monique Lee, Themba Lee
Zenzile Monique Lee
Zenzi Lee was born in Manhattan, New York. Her mother Bongi Makeba Lee died in 1985 and she grew up with her grandmother. Zenzi Lee sang as a backup vocalist for Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela. Her debut album “Daynights” was released on the 26th of November 1999 in South Africa.
Nelson Lumumba Lee
Lumumba Lee is Miriam Makeba’s grandson and Zenzi Lee’s big brother. He joined the Miriam Makeba Band and produced some of Miriam Makeba’s music.
Themba Lee
Themba Lee is also the grandson of Mama Africam but he died when he was still very young.
