There’s not a woman who isn’t touched, changed, the first time they hear Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise”.  She was that stern voice of a mother that knew you could do better, and the encouraging voice friend that challenged you to do something and be better. The world mourns her passing on May 28, 2014.

In 1951, Marguerite Johnson, moved with her son and husband at the time,Tosh Angelos, to New York City to study African Dance with Trinidadian African Dance pioneer Pearl Primus. By 1954, her marriage had ended, and she was performing calypso music in nightclubs in San Francisco, going by the name Rita Johnson.

During her time working at clubs like the Purple Onion, managers suggested that she go by the professional name Maya Angelou to reflect the spirit and feel of her calypso dance performances.  Her first album and only album as a singer, Miss Calypso, was released in 1957 during the calypso music heyday in America, leading to an appearance in the movie, Calypso Heat Wave, performing songs from Miss Calypso.

She sang all of the songs on the album and composed five. The authenticity and purpose of the album, fame versus artistic expression, has been challenged, but her calypso connection created a special outlet for her voice and the catalyst for the very name that inspires girls, women, and people everywhere to do and be their best.

Watch as she discusses her Calypso Heat Wave appearance with Oprah.