A Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, activist, and actress who combines African rhythms with international styles, advocating for women's empowerment and education.
A five-time Grammy Award winner, Angelique Kidjo is renowned for her eclectic blend of traditional Beninese music, Afrobeat, and international styles, earning her the title of "Africa's premier diva" by Time magazine.
Kidjo was born on July 14, 1960, in Ouidah, French Dahomey (now Benin), to a family of performing artists. Her father, a musician, and mother, a choreographer and theatre director, exposed her to a diverse range of musical styles from an early age.
By the age of six, Kidjo was already performing with her mother's theatre troupe, solidifying her passion for traditional music and dance.
Kidjo's unique sound is characterized by her use of traditional Beninese Zilin vocal technique and vocalese. She sings in five languages, including Fon, French, Yoruba, Gen Mina, and English, often incorporating her own personal language and song titles like "Batonga."
Throughout her career, Kidjo has collaborated with an impressive array of artists, including:
Kidjo's contributions to music have been recognized with five Grammy Awards, including Best Global Music Album for Mother Nature in 2021.
In 2007, Time magazine named her "Africa's premier diva," and in 2021, she was included in Time's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Kidjo is also a 2023 Polar Music Prize laureate, solidifying her status as a music icon.
Angelique Kidjo's impact on modern music is undeniable, with her unique blend of traditional and international styles inspiring a new generation of artists.
Her album Logozo ranks number 37 on Vice magazine's Thump website's list of the Greatest Dance Albums of All Time.
Kidjo's influence extends beyond music to social activism, using her platform to promote education, women's empowerment, and social justice.
With a career spanning over four decades, Angelique Kidjo continues to push the boundaries of music, inspiring a global audience with her energy, passion, and creativity.
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