Paul Robeson is one of the most renowned black people from America, famous for his exceptional abilities as a musician, actor, and sportsman. He was a baritone with an incredible voice, a star footballer, as well as a recording artist, long before the political establishment silenced him.
In 1939, Robeson sang “Ballad For Americans,” a ten-minute patriotic song honoring the history and diversity of the country. His performance on news radio was a huge hit. The crowd cheered for twenty minutes. Letters and phone calls poured into the radio station. “The Ballad For Americans” was so successful that he became a legendary figure and was referred to as the “most famous black man in the land.”
However, in the late 1940s to 1950s, fame proved not to be so kind to him. During the period of the Cold War, his movements in civil right action as well as advocacy of socialism saw him come under fire.
His performances in these plays caught public attention, as he also recorded spirituals. Then came his singing of Ol’ Man River in the showboat of 1927. This act received great acclaim.
Paul Robeson is a remarkable example of talent, hard work, and bravery. In spite of political and racial adversity.
