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Anyway, to tie today's holiday to music, we're going to talk about "Happy Birthday" by Stevie Wonder. This song was written and released in 1980 and appears on his album Hotter than July under the Motown label. .â€¦

You've all heard the news now, Nelson Mandela passed away at the age of 95 today, Thursday.

After spending 27 years in prison for opposing apartheid in South Africa, he emerged to become the country's first black president.

Many musicians called for Mandela's release, including the Specials, who recorded a song called "Free Nelson Mandela".

thespecials
@thespecials

10:16 PM – 5 Dec 13

Nelson Mandela RIP

Gloria Estefan
@GloriaEstefan

10:12 PM – 5 Dec 13

RIP Nelson Mandela, who truly changed the world with his sacrifice…it was an honor to have been in his presence.

pic.twitter.com/gqgvABNcuL

The death of Mandela was important to Paul Simon, as you know after Simon & Garfunkel broke up, Simon traveled to South Africa where he embraced the lifestyle and culture of the land and inspired one of his best albums, Graceland.

"Mandela was one of the great leaders and teachers of the twentieth century. He conceived a model for mortal enemies to overcome their hatred and find a way through compassion to rebuild a nation based on truth, justice and the power of forgiveness. His passing should reignite a worldwide effort for peace."

— Paul Simon on Nelson Mandela's passing, December 5, 2013

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