Angélique Kidjo

Angélique Kidjo, the five-time Grammy Award-winning artist, is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of our time. Renowned for her exceptional voice, vibrant stage presence, and mastery of multiple languages and cultures, Kidjo has established herself as a force in the international music scene. Time Magazine named her one of the "100 Most Influential People in the World" in 2021 and "Africa’s premier diva", while Forbes ranked her as one of the most powerful figures in Africa. She has been honoured with numerous awards and has already won a Grammy five times. Her single "Sunlight To My Soul" (2024) was also nominated for a Grammy in the "Best Global Performance" category.

Born in Benin, Kidjo draws from the rich traditions of West African music while seamlessly blending elements of American R&B, funk, jazz, and Latin American rhythms. Throughout her career, she has released twenty albums, each showcasing her unique ability to bridge cultural divides and push the boundaries of musical genres. Her album HOPE!!, continues her collaborative approach with artists from different generations and musical styles. The album features collaborations with Nile Rodgers, Diane Warren, PJ Morton, The Cavemen, and the Soweto Gospel Choir. Mainly produced by Nigerian musician Shizzi and recorded between Paris and Los Angeles, the album blends multiple musical influences while showcasing Kidjo’s powerful voice and artistic presence.Inspired by values such as resilience, compassion, and determination, the album carries a message of hope and solidarity in a troubled world. Several songs pay tribute to her family, especially her mother, whose strength and optimism deeply shaped her life.

Her genre-defying performances sure know to captivate an audience, whether she’s headlining sold-out concerts at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall or the Royal Albert Hall, or collaborating with symphonies and orchestras around the world. Her collaborations with renowned artists, such as Philip Glass, and her reinterpretations of classics like Remain in Light by Talking Heads and the music of Celia Cruz, demonstrate her unwavering commitment to both honoring and reinventing musical legacies.

In addition to her musical achievements, Kidjo has built a reputation as a tireless advocate for children’s rights. She founded the Batonga Foundation, which focuses on the education and empowerment of young girls in Africa, and has worked closely with UNICEF and Oxfam.