Credit: Angélique Kidjo/Instagram
Characterizing Angélique Kidjo would lead to describing her as an African music icon with a remarkable career. With numerous Grammy nominations and wins, as well as recognition on Time’s list of influential individuals, her musical journey commenced at a young age, blossoming into success as a vocalist during her teenage years.
Born to a Beninese father and Nigerian mother, Angélique Kidjo embodies a fusion of diverse cultures. Fluent in five languages—Fon, French, Yorùbá, Gen (Mina), and English—she excels as a versatile songwriter, actress, and activist. Her music seamlessly blends West African traditions from Benin with elements of American R&B, funk, jazz, and influences from Europe and Latin America.
In 2008, she clinched her first Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album with “Djin Djin.” Subsequent wins followed for albums like “Eve,” “Sings,” “Mother Nature,” and “Celia.”
From collaborations with Tina Turner to John Legend, Angélique Kidjo has a diverse portfolio of partnerships with various artists. Notably, in Nigeria, she has collaborated with renowned musicians such as Burna Boy, Yemi Alade, Davido, and Mr. Eazi.
Exploring her collaborations with Nigerian music stars reveals a rich tapestry of musical harmony and creativity.
Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s initial collaboration with Angélique Kidjo transpired on the track “Different” from his album “African Giant,” sharing credits with Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley. This collaborative effort was part of Burna Boy’s Grammy-nominated album, competing against Angélique Kidjo’s “Celia,” which won the award.
In her Grammy acceptance speech, Angélique Kidjo dedicated the award to Burna Boy, recognizing his impact in reshaping global perspectives on African music and acknowledging the rising influence of young African artists.
Their subsequent collaboration on Angélique Kidjo’s “Mother Nature” album in 2021 featured the track “Do Yourself,” nominated for Best Global Music Performance at the 2022 Grammy Awards.
“Different”
“Do Yourself”