Role

:

Composer Performer

Birth

:

July 14, 1960 in Ouidah, Benin

 

Angélique Kidjo is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and composer from Benin, West Africa. She was born on July 14, 1960, in Cotonou, Benin, to a family of musicians. Her father was a guitarist, and her mother was a choreographer and singer. Kidjo grew up in a musical household, and her parents encouraged her to pursue music from a young age. Kidjo began singing in her school choir and later joined a local theater group. She was inspired by the music of Miriam Makeba, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin, and she began to develop her own unique style. In 1980, Kidjo moved to Paris, France, to pursue her music career. In Paris, Kidjo began to perform in clubs and cafes, and she quickly gained a following. She released her first album, "Pretty," in 1981, which was a mix of African and European influences. The album was well-received, and Kidjo began to tour extensively throughout Europe. In 1985, Kidjo released her second album, "Parakou," which was a tribute to her hometown in Benin. The album featured traditional African rhythms and instruments, as well as modern pop and jazz influences. The album was a critical success and helped to establish Kidjo as a rising star in the world music scene. Kidjo continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including "Logozo" (1991), "Aye" (1994), and "Oremi" (1998). Her music continued to blend African and Western influences, and she became known for her powerful vocals and energetic live performances. In 2002, Kidjo released "Black Ivory Soul," which was a tribute to the music of South America. The album featured collaborations with Brazilian musicians and explored the connections between African and South American music. The album was a critical success and earned Kidjo her first Grammy nomination. Kidjo continued to explore new musical styles and collaborations throughout the 2000s and 2010s. She released albums that blended African, Latin, and Caribbean influences, and she collaborated with musicians from around the world. In 2007, she released "Djin Djin," which featured collaborations with Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, and Carlos Santana. The album won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album in 2008. In addition to her music career, Kidjo has been an advocate for social justice and human rights. She has worked with organizations such as UNICEF and Oxfam to promote education and health initiatives in Africa. She has also been a vocal advocate for women's rights and has spoken out against female genital mutilation and child marriage. Kidjo's music has been praised for its energy, passion, and social consciousness. She has been a pioneer in the world music scene and has helped to bring African music to a global audience. Her music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world, and she remains a beloved figure in the music industry.

More....