Dynamic Vocal Group
The Skylarks were a female musical group who sang jazzy South African vocals during the 1950’s. The group was founded by the legendary singer Miriam Makeba.
The Skylarks were originally called The Sunbeams and modelled themselves after popular American vocal groups. Their music was thus heavily influenced by American Jazz and vocals.
Makeba auditioned various women, and the first Skylarks were Johanna Radebe, Mary Rabotapi and Mummy Girl Nketle. Makeba was the leader of the group, they produced jazz hits such as ‘Hush’, ‘Inkoma Zodwa’ and ‘Hamba Bekile’.
The Skylarks were quite popular during the 1950’s and although record sales were not recorded, it is estimated that the group roughly sold around 100 000 records. The Skylarks disbanded when Makeba left for the United States.