Angélique Kidjo

Angélique Kidjo is a Beninese singer, songwriter, and activist whose music blends West African traditions with funk, jazz, and other styles.

Miriam Makeba: Miriam Makeba was a South African singer and civil-rights activist known internationally as Mama Africa. Makeba’s pan-African artistry offers a landmark predecessor to Kidjo’s internationally engaged career.
Logozo: “Logozo” is Angélique Kidjo’s 1991 album, featuring the international hit “We We.” Its success established Kidjo’s voice in the global music scene.
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador: A UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador is a public figure who supports the organization’s work for children’s rights and welfare. Kidjo has used this role to advocate for children and women.
Ouidah: Ouidah is a coastal city in Benin with a history shaped by the Atlantic slave trade and Vodun traditions. Kidjo was born in Ouidah and grew up in Benin’s cultural landscape.
Grammy Award for Best World Music Album: The Grammy Award for Best World Music Album was a Grammy category recognizing recordings from international musical traditions. Kidjo won the category multiple times, gaining major recognition for African music.
Fela Kuti: Fela Kuti was a Nigerian musician and political activist who pioneered Afrobeat. Kidjo has drawn on Afrobeat’s sound and political force in her own music.
Aye: “Aye” is Angélique Kidjo’s 1994 album, combining African rhythms with contemporary pop production. The album develops the dance-oriented sound that followed “Logozo.”
Batonga Foundation: The Batonga Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports girls’ education and leadership in Africa. Kidjo founded Batonga to expand educational opportunities for adolescent girls.
Benin: Benin is a West African country bordered by Togo, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Kidjo’s national identity and early musical environment are rooted in Benin.
Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album: The Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album is a Grammy category for recordings rooted in music from around the world. Kidjo’s wins in this category reflect the later naming of a field where she is a prominent artist.

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Oumou SangaréRelated: Her career parallels Sangaré’s in combining African musical roots with worldwide performance.