{"id":155995,"date":"2025-03-25T15:55:03","date_gmt":"2025-03-25T15:55:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/african-music\/20-essential-songs-by-angelique-kidjo-you-need-to-hear\/"},"modified":"2025-03-25T15:55:03","modified_gmt":"2025-03-25T15:55:03","slug":"20-essential-songs-by-angelique-kidjo-you-need-to-hear","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=155995","title":{"rendered":"20 Essential Songs By Angelique Kidjo You Need To Hear"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Angelique Kidjo\u2019s voice is a lifeline\u2014a thread connecting Benin\u2019s dusty streets to the world\u2019s grandest stages.<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Born in 1960 in Ouidah \u2013 Benin, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.newyorker.com\/culture\/the-new-yorker-interview\/angelique-kidjo-has-heard-it-all\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo<\/a> grew up surrounded by her mother\u2019s theater troupe and the radio\u2019s eclectic sounds\u2014Miriam Makeba, James Brown, and Fela Kuti.<\/p>\n<p>Exiled from Benin in 1983, she found her voice in Paris, blending West African rhythms with jazz, pop, and beyond. With five Grammys, fluency in five languages, and a fierce dedication to activism, her music remains her strongest statement\u2014raw, layered, and deeply purposeful. Kidjo doesn\u2019t just sing; she channels history, defiance, and joy. From collaborating with Santana to mentoring Burna Boy, she stays rooted in her Beninese heritage.<\/p>\n<p>These 20 tracks aren\u2019t just hits\u2014they\u2019re moments where her artistry shines brightest.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Gbe Agossi<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo\u2019s debut bursts with youthful energy and raw intensity. The percussion pounds like a village drum circle\u2014unfiltered and organic\u2014while her high, untamed voice slices through the chaos. It\u2019s a vivid snapshot of an artist at the edge of transformation, deeply rooted in Benin\u2019s traditions yet reaching for something greater.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - Gbe Agossi\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nGoeqEMztU8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Batonga\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Taken from her 1991 album <em>Logozo<\/em>, <em>Batonga <\/em>was the breakthrough that launched Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo onto the global stage. With its infectious rhythm and fearless vocals, the track is a bold anthem of freedom and self-expression\u2014Kidjo staking her claim with undeniable energy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;Batonga&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/A-bWhuIFZ3U?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. We We<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Another standout from <em>Logozo<\/em>, this track\u2019s infectious rhythm propelled it up the charts. Kidjo\u2019s soaring vocals glide over the groove, seamlessly blending African soul with pop sensibility. It feels effortless\u2014melodic and breezy\u2014yet beneath its ease lies a masterful touch.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;We We&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/x4NsRS3S1UY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Agolo\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>A Grammy-nominated highlight from he album <em>Ay\u00e9<\/em>, <em>Agolo <\/em>is both a hypnotic groove and a call to protect the earth. Shot at Paisley Park, its striking music video showcased Kidjo\u2019s visual storytelling, blending themes of motherhood and African deities with vibrant energy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;Agolo&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dlgESq5FAx4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Adouma\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/genius.com\/Angelique-kidjo-adouma-lyrics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Adouma<\/a><\/em> is pure rhythmic hypnosis. Polyrhythms swirl as Angelique Kidjo\u2019s raw, guttural chants drive the energy, making dance irresistible. The second track on <em>Ay\u00e9<\/em>, it builds on the momentum of the Grammy-nominated<em> Agolo<\/em> with an upbeat, groove-heavy composition. Co-written with Jean Louis Pierre Hebrail, it\u2019s a pulse-pounding standout.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;Adouma&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/S6LHQoM9OoE?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Wombo Lombo\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><em>Wombo Lombo<\/em>, the second track on Fifa, is pure joy in motion. This chart-topping single blends an upbeat tempo with a playful groove, making it impossible to resist. Angelique Kidjo\u2019s charisma electrifies every note, turning celebration into an art form. Beneath the fun, there\u2019s precision\u2014proof of a master at work.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;Wombo Lombo&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/MyMDHccQhzo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Shango\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Also from her <em>Fifa<\/em> album, <em>Shango <\/em>crackles with the raw power of its namesake, the Yoruba thunder god. It\u2019s a bold tribute to her cultural roots, delivered with fierce, commanding energy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo - Shango (music video)\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/t7pJqaThNCg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. We Are One\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Kidjo\u2019s contribution to <em>The Lion King II: Simba\u2019s Pride<\/em> is a soaring ballad about unity. Composed by Tom Snow, <em><a href=\"https:\/\/lionking.fandom.com\/wiki\/We_Are_One_(Ang%C3%A9lique_Kidjo)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">We Are One<\/a><\/em> was released on September 8, 1998, as part of the film\u2019s soundtrack. It\u2019s a surprising yet fitting addition to her legacy, showcasing her mainstream appeal. With rising strings, subtle percussion, and her powerful voice, the song embodies a message of togetherness that lingers beyond the silver screens.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;We Are One&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/insF0_YTb40?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. <\/strong>Voodoo Chile<\/h2>\n<p>Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo reimagines Jimi Hendrix\u2019s <em>Voodoo Child<\/em> with a bold West African twist, turning the psychedelic rock classic into a pulsating, percussive force. Featured on her 1998 album <em>Oremi<\/em>, her version blends Hendrix\u2019s bluesy grit with driving African rhythms and her signature powerhouse vocals. Rather than merely covering the song, she transforms it\u2014bridging rock and Afrobeat in a way only she can.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - &quot;Voodoo Chile&quot;\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/36bGFi1U_vw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Malaika\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><em>Malaika<\/em> is a timeless Swahili ballad, originally written in 1945 by Tanzanian musician Adam Salim. Over the decades, it has been reimagined by many artists, most notably Miriam Makeba in 1971 and Boney M in 1981. Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo\u2019s rendition transforms heartbreak into beauty, her quivering voice weaving through the song\u2019s tale of lost love. Backed by delicate guitar and soft rhythms, she honors the original while making it unmistakably her own\u2014gentle, haunting, and deeply moving.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - Malaika - Africa Live in Dakar\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/e1LOPozBun4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>11. Salala feat Peter Gabriel<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><em>Salala<\/em> feels like a dream in motion. Peter Gabriel\u2019s ethereal whispers glide over a steady pulse, while Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo\u2019s deep, soulful voice grounds the track with raw emotion. A standout from her Grammy-winning <em>Djin Djin<\/em>, it\u2019s both haunting and danceable\u2014a mesmerizing fusion that even landed on the U.S. Dance charts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Salala (Radio Version)\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/QZewDIlgAqk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>12. Obinrin (ft. Ibrahim Maalouf<\/strong>)<\/h2>\n<p>Queen of Sheba, the joint album by Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo and Ibrahim Maalouf, received a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album in 2023. It is a mesmerizing fusion of African rhythms, Middle Eastern influences, and jazz. One standout track, Obinrin, embodies womanhood in sound\u2014Maalouf\u2019s trumpet swirls like smoke, while Kidjo\u2019s Yor\u00f9b\u00e1 chants add depth and power. Both meditative and fierce, it is a testament to their boundless artistry.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Obinrin\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GtR2QSg-Mbw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. <strong>Mother Nature (ft. Sting)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>The title track from Kidjo\u2019s 2021 album, <em>Mother Nature<\/em>, blends her commanding vocals with Sting\u2019s signature warmth in a heartfelt plea for the planet. Merging African rhythms with soft rock and orchestral flourishes, the song balances urgency with hope. Its rich harmonies and thought-provoking lyrics make it a stirring anthem for sustainability and global unity.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - Mother Nature (Clip Officiel) ft. Sting\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/a14aOMHKQaU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. <strong>Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo \u2013 Do Yourself (ft. Burna Boy)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Following their collaboration on Burna Boy\u2019s <em>African Giant<\/em> and Kidjo <a href=\"https:\/\/unorthodoxreviews.com\/angelique-kidjo-grammy-award-burnaboy\">dedicating<\/a> her fourth Grammy win to him, this powerhouse duet was inevitable. <em>Do Yourself<\/em> blends Afrobeats with Kidjo\u2019s signature global sound, radiating African pride and self-empowerment. Featured on her 2021 album <em>Mother Nature<\/em>, the track pairs Burna Boy\u2019s fiery delivery with Kidjo\u2019s commanding presence, making for an electrifying anthem.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - Do Yourself (Official Music Video) ft. Burna Boy\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-27-Oso83LM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. <strong>Africa, One of a Kind (ft. Mr Eazi &amp; Salif Ke\u00efta)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>A highlight from Kidjo\u2019s 2021 album <em>Mother Nature<\/em>, <em>Africa, One of a Kind<\/em> is a vibrant tribute to African identity and unity. Mr Eazi opens the track with a sample from Salif Ke\u00efta\u2019s classic <em>Africa<\/em>, making it only fitting that the legend himself joins in. It\u2019s a cross-generational feel-good anthem that honors the continent\u2019s rich heritage while embracing its evolving sound.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - Africa, One Of A Kind (Clip officiel) ft. Mr Eazi, Salif Ke\u00efta\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nmLjz86cTOY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. <strong>\u00d2r\u00f2k\u00f3r\u00f2\u201d (with Mr Eazi)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>From his 2023 album <em>The Evil Genius<\/em>, <strong>\u201c\u00d2r\u00f2k\u00f3r\u00f2\u201d<\/strong> is a fusion of Afrobeats and traditional African sounds, elevated by Kidjo\u2019s powerhouse vocals. The song carries a deep message about truth and transparency, with Eazi\u2019s laid-back delivery contrasting Kidjo\u2019s commanding presence. It\u2019s a bold, cross-generational collaboration that highlights both artists\u2019 storytelling prowess.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Mr Eazi - \u00d2r\u00f2k\u00f3r\u00f2 (feat. Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo) [Official Music Video]\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6c6DY24wMqE?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>17. Manodzi (with Stonebwoy)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>A standout from Stonebwoy\u2019s <em>5th Dimension<\/em>, <em>Manodzi<\/em> is a soulful, spiritual anthem that fuses Ghanaian dancehall with Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo\u2019s timeless vocals. Meaning <em>\u201cI\u2019ll Keep On\u201d<\/em> in West African language Ewe, the track embodies resilience, gratitude, and divine protection. With its rich African rhythms and uplifting message, it bridges generations, celebrating strength and perseverance through music.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Stonebwoy - Manodzi ft. Angelique Kidjo\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/pf7aZsUHe5Y?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>18. Dignity (ft. Yemi Alade<\/strong>)<\/h2>\n<p>A powerful collaboration with longtime collaborator and mentee Yemi Alade, this song is pure protest music. The beat crackles with defiance, Alade\u2019s warmth contrasts with Kidjo\u2019s fierce resolve, and their harmonies intertwine seamlessly. Together, they deliver a poignant tribute to those lost in Nigeria\u2019s #EndSARS protests and a rallying cry against injustice everywhere.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo - Dignity (Clip officiel) ft. Yemi Alade\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gndnrjfft9U?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1<strong>9. Na Money (with Davido &amp; The Cavemen<\/strong>)<\/h2>\n<p>Kidjo joins Afrobeats star Davido on this standout from <em>Timeless<\/em>, bringing depth to its smooth highlife-inspired production. With Davido and The Cavemen delivering vibrant vocals, her presence adds a timeless gravitas, proving she remains a powerful force in today\u2019s music scene. As the elder stateswoman, she anchors the track with soul.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Davido - NA MONEY (Official Video) ft. The Cavemen., Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/5OyDO_02yj8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>20. Joy (ft. Davido<\/strong>)<\/h2>\n<p>Her second collaboration with Davido, <em>Joy<\/em> is an upbeat, heartfelt, and inspirational hit that topped Nigerian charts. It is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kidjo.com\/videos\/v\/joy-official-music-video\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reported<\/a> that the two artists began working on the song after a chance reunion in New York in summer 2024. They later reunited in St. Tropez to film its vibrant, energy-filled video, with additional footage shot in Nigeria. Sung in Yoruba and English, <em>Joy<\/em> radiates positivity, celebrating resilience and the unbreakable spirit of Africa!<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Angelique Kidjo &amp; Davido - Joy (Official music video)\" width=\"840\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-8LiSJN9ISw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<p><!-- CONTENT END 3 -->\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Angelique Kidjo\u2019s voice is a lifeline\u2014a thread connecting Benin\u2019s dusty streets to the world\u2019s grandest stages. Born in 1960 in Ouidah \u2013 Benin, Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo grew up surrounded by her mother\u2019s theater troupe and the radio\u2019s eclectic sounds\u2014Miriam Makeba, James Brown, and Fela Kuti. Exiled from Benin in 1983, she found her voice in Paris, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":155996,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[12025],"tags":[64428,1780,28800,64429,6652],"dealstore":[],"offerexpiration":[],"class_list":["post-155995","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-african-music","tag-angelique","tag-essential","tag-hear","tag-kidjo","tag-songs"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>20 Essential Songs By Angelique Kidjo You Need To Hear - Som2ny Network<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=155995\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"20 Essential Songs By Angelique Kidjo You Need To Hear - Som2ny Network\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Angelique Kidjo\u2019s voice is a lifeline\u2014a thread connecting Benin\u2019s dusty streets to the world\u2019s grandest stages. Born in 1960 in Ouidah \u2013 Benin, Ang\u00e9lique Kidjo grew up surrounded by her mother\u2019s theater troupe and the radio\u2019s eclectic sounds\u2014Miriam Makeba, James Brown, and Fela Kuti. 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