Camille Yarbrough facts for kids

Camille Yarbrough, born on January 8, 1934, is an amazing American artist. She is a singer, dancer, actress, poet, and author. She also works as a television producer and is an activist who stands up for what's right.

Camille is most famous for her song "Take Yo' Praise." This song was later used by the popular musician Fatboy Slim in his hit song "Praise You." "Take Yo' Praise" was first recorded in 1975 for Camille's first album, The Iron Pot Cooker. She wrote the song to honor people who fought for fairness and justice during the civil rights movement. She believed people should praise and respect each other more.

About Camille Yarbrough

Camille Yarbrough grew up in Chicago, Illinois. She was the youngest of seven children in her family. When she was a teenager, she loved to dance. She even danced with the famous Katherine Dunham Company.

Her Music and Shows

Camille's first album, The Iron Pot Cooker, was inspired by her own stage show. This show was called Tales and Tunes of an African American Griot. A griot is like a storyteller or historian in some African cultures. Camille traveled all over the country with this show in the 1970s and 1980s.

Her song "Take Yo' Praise" became very well-known when Fatboy Slim used a part of it in his 1999 song "Praise You." When asked about it, Camille said she liked how he used her voice. She felt he kept the true meaning of her original song.

Camille also released a second album called Ancestor House in 2003. This album featured spoken word, soul, and blues music. She released it on her own record label, Maat Music.

Camille as an Author

In 1979, Camille Yarbrough wrote a children's book called Cornrows. The book was illustrated by Carole Byard. Cornrows was a big success and won the Coretta Scott King Award. This award celebrates excellent books for children and young adults by African American authors and illustrators.

Camille Yarbrough continues to live in New York City.