The Skylarks were an all-woman South African band of the 1950s, founded by Miriam Makeba. The original lineup comprised Makeba and Johanna Radebe, Mary Rabotapi, and Mummy Girl Nketle. Later, Helen Van Rensburg and Abigail Kubheka replaced Radebe. [1] [2] At one time they were the most popular Black singing band in the country. They also recorded and played as The Sunbeams.[3] They played a blend of South African music and jazz.[4]