Angélique Kidjo

Afro-funk, reggae, samba, salsa, gospel, jazz, and Zairean rumba are just a few of the diverse musical styles seamlessly woven into the sound of Angélique Kidjo, the soulful, Benin-born, and Paris-based vocalist. With a career spanning more than fifteen years, Kidjo has become one of the most influential and internationally acclaimed artists of her generation. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic performances, she has skillfully blended African traditions with global genres, creating a unique and captivating sound that transcends cultural and musical boundaries.

Kidjo’s music is a reflection of her roots in Benin, West Africa, but also of her broad musical influences, shaped by her travels and collaborations with an eclectic range of artists from all over the world. Throughout her career, she has worked with some of the most iconic names in music, including Carlos Santana, Dave Matthews, Quincy Jones, and Cassandra Wilson. These collaborations have not only expanded her musical horizons but have also allowed her to bring a fresh and unique perspective to genres like rock, jazz, and soul.

One of the standout moments in Kidjo’s career came with the release of her album Djin Djin. The album featured collaborations with some of modern rock, pop, and soul’s brightest stars, including Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, Carlos Santana, and Josh Groban. Djin Djin was met with widespread critical acclaim and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album. This marked a significant achievement in her already illustrious career, further solidifying her position as a global ambassador for African music.

Beyond her musical achievements, Angélique Kidjo is known for her activism and her role as a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador. She is an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, education, and humanitarian causes, using her platform to raise awareness and inspire change. Angélique Kidjo’s music, activism, and humanitarian efforts have made her a beloved and influential figure, earning her recognition as one of the most important artists of her time. With every new project, she continues to break new ground and push the boundaries of what is possible in world music.

Licensing with Spirit: License Angélique music HERE.