QUEEN OF SHEBA
TRACKLIST
Ahan 04:04
Eyin 03:58
Omije 07:30
Ogbo 04:19
Alikama 05:39
Ife 05:52
Obinrin 05:33
// MISTER IBÉ
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Angelique Kidjo and Ibrahim Maalouf's album "Queen of Sheba" creates a truly captivating and magical experience for listeners. Each track on the album takes the listener on a journey, invoking a sense of wonderment and intrigue. Angelique's powerful and soulful vocals perfectly complement Ibrahim's mesmerizing trumpet melodies, creating a beautiful synergy between their artistry. With its fusion of African rhythms, Middle Eastern influences, and contemporary jazz elements, "Queen of Sheba" is a testament to the rich diversity of the global music scene. Released on June 29, 2023, this album takes listeners on a sonic journey filled with infectious rhythms, captivating melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics.
MOTHER NATURE
TRACKLIST
Choose Love
Dignity (with Yemi Alade)
Africa, One Of A Kind (with Mr Eazi & Salif Keita)
Mother Nature
Do Yourself (with Burna Boy)
Meant For Me (feat. Shungudzo)
Omon Oba (with Zeynab & Lionel Loueke)
Free & Equal (with Sampa The Great)
Fired Up (feat. Blue Lab Beats & Ghetto Boy)
Take It Or Leave It (with EARTHGANG)
Mycelium (with -M-)
One Africa (Indépendance Cha-Cha)
Flying High
// UNIVERSAL MUSIC FRANCE
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Mother Nature is Angélique’s first album of original music in 7 years, following 2019’s Grammy-winning Celia, and her 2018 radical reimagining of Talking Heads’ landmark LP Remain In Light. Mother Nature features Yemi Alade, Mr Eazi, Salif Keita, Burna Boy, Shungudzo, Zeynab, Lionel Loueke, Sampa The Great, Blue Lab Beats, Ghetto Boy, EARTHGANG, and -M-. Producers that worked on the album include Kel P (Burna Boy), James Poyser of The Roots, Vtek, Rexxie, Synematik, Blue Lab Beats, -M-, Brad Thomas Ackley, David Donatien and Dany Synthé. She began writing it in 2019 and it was created over the past year in quarantine.
CELIA
TRACKLIST
CUCALA (3:19)
LA VIDA ES UN CARNAVAL (4:33)
SAHARA (4:37)
BAILAYEMAYA (2:54)
TOROMATA (4:30)
ELEGUA (3:06)
QUIMBARA (4:34)
BEMBACOLORA (3:44)
OYADIOSA (3:27)
YEMAYA (1:37)
// UNIVERSAL MUSIC FRANCE
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“As a child I saw Celia Cruz singing in Benin and her energy and joy changed my life. It was the first I was seeing a powerful woman performer on a stage. Her voice was percussive and her songs resonated in a mysterious way with me. Many years later, I learned she was singing the Yoruba songs that were carried out of Benin 400 years before. I felt she was a long lost sister from the other side of the world. Like me, she experienced exile from a dictatorship and she was always proud of her roots, of her African roots. In the same way I wanted to bring back Rock and Roll to Africa with my Talking Heads’ Remain In Light project, I now want to pay homage to this incredible voice and those songs that reunite with their juju and Afrobeat roots.”
REMAIN IN LIGHT
TRACKLIST
Born Under Punches 3:49
Crosseyed and Painless 5:28
The Great Curve 4:08
Once in a Lifetime 5:48
Houses in Motion 4:33
Seen and Not Seen 3:04
Listening Wind 6:01
The Overload 3:28
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Angélique Kidjo has partnered with super producer Jeff Bhasker (Rihanna, Kanye West, Harry Styles, Bruno Mars, Drake, Jay-Z) to create 'Remain In Light' - a new project that finds the Benin-born artist reclaiming rock for Africa, bringing the Talking Heads' landmark 1980 album full circle. The record is a track-by-track re-imagination of the original, considered to be one of the greatest albums of the ‘80s and deeply influenced by music from West Africa, notably Fela Kuti's afrobeat. With her version of 'Remain In Light’ (out June 8/Kravenworks Records), Angélique celebrates the genius of Talking Heads, Brian Eno and the touchstones that made the original so revered and injects it with her euphoric singing, explosive percussion, horn orchestrations, and select lyrics performed in languages from her home country.
‘Remain In Light’ features appearances by Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend, Blood Orange, Tony Allen, Angelique’s longtime guitarist Dominic James, and Magatte Sow (percussionist for the ‘Black Panther’ film score). Visual artist Kerry James Marshall collaborated on the album artwork.
This album is the culmination of Angélique’s deep-rooted love and respect for the original: she performed it in full at Carnegie Hall last year to raves (with the New York Times declaring, ”Ms. Kidjo isn’t toppling an icon; she is dancing on its heights”) and was joined by David Byrne on stage. She also performed it at Bonnaroo.
SINGS
TRACKLIST
Malaika (3:33)
Ominira (3:52)
Kelele (3:37)
Fifa (4:33)
Otishe (4:03)
Bahia (3:32)
Petite Fleur (2:28)
Samba Pa Ti (3:49
Nanae (4:17)
Naima (3:49)
Loloye (4:15)
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When a West African singer meets a Luxembourg orchestra, you get some real world music. Angélique Kidjo reimagines songs from all across her discography here, blending her strong-but-supple pipes with the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg’s artful arrangements. Her voice shifts seamlessly from sweet to guttural on “Malaika,” the Tanzanian love song made famous by Miriam Makeba; bridges Benin and Mexico on Carlos Santana’s “Samba Pa Ti”; and dips into a French chanson feel on “Petite Fleur,” with the orchestra elegantly entwining itself around her at every turn.
Sings - Angélique Kidjo & Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg
Released on March 31, 2015 ℗ 2015 SLG, LLC
EVE
TRACKLIST
M'Baamba (Kenyan Song)
Shango Wa
Eva
Interlude: Agbade
Bomba
Hello
Blewu
Kamoushou
Kulumbu
Interlude: Kletedjan
Ebile
Awalole
Bana
Orisha
Interlude: Wayi
Cauri
// 429 RECORDS
Album Available
Taking over Miriam Makeba’s mantle as the most iconic and socially active female African musician of her generation, the electrifying Angelique Kidjo has a hard, keening voice that's impossible to ignore whether she's singing or talking about various issues. Dedicated to the women of Africa and named after Kidjo's mother, Eve notably adds several African women vocal groups from Benin and Kenya to Kidjo’s usual blend of Afropop, funk, rock, and Latin music. Other wrinkles include the appearance of Dr. John on the driving “Kulumbu,” The Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg on the cohesive and inspired “Awalole,” and a surprisingly loose Kronos Quartet (joined by African percussionists) on “Ebile.” The list of standout cuts here is long, but it starts with the aforementioned “Awalole,” the hard-edged groove of “Orisha” and “Shango Wa,” and the modernized call-and-response of the Kenyan folk tune “M’Baamba.” Kidjo has often looked outside her Beninese heritage to update and expand her musical vision. She does an excellent job once again on Eve, proving that music is truly a universal language.
SPIRIT RISING
TRACKLIST
Tumba
Afirika
Redemption Song
Agolo
Gimme Shelter Featuring Dianne Reeves
Malaika
Summertime
Batonga
Pearls Featuring Josh Groban
Kelele
Move On Up Featuring Branford Marsalis
I Think UR A Contra Featuring Ezra Koenig
Lolon - Revel's Bolero Featuring Branford Marsalis
Monfe Ran E Featuring Dianne Reeves
Senamou
N'Yin Wan Nou We
// RAZOR & TIE
Album Available
Spirit Rising, Live from Guest Street is an audio and video representation of an uplifting live special Angélique Kidjo taped at WGBH Studios, Spirit Rising features guest spots from Branford Marsalis, Josh Groban, Ezra Koenig, Diane Reeves, dancers from the Broadway show FELA!, the Borromeo String Quartet, the Kuumba Choir, and a horn section courtesy of Berklee College of Music.
ÕŸÖ
TRACKLIST
Zelie (2:03)
Samba Pa Ti (3:59)
Move On Up (3:46)
Lakutshona Llanga (2:16)
I've Got Dreams To Remember / Yoruba Version (3:52)
Kelele (3:42)
Baby, I Love You (3:10)
Dil Main Chuppa Ke Pyar Ka (3:51)
Petite Fleur (2:19)
Afia (4:11)
Cold Sweat (4:02)
Out Of Africa / Mina Version (3:10)
Mbube (4:29)
Atcha Houn (1:58)
You Can Count On Me / Bonus Track (3:09)
Agbalagba / Bonus Track (2:26)
// UNIVERSAL MUSIC FRANCE
Album Available
OYO is the title of Angelique Kidjo's album that was released in 2010. The album was inspired by her childhood memories of listening to various African artists like Miriam Makeba, Fela Kuti, and Hugh Masekela. OYO is a Yoruba word that means "joy" and the album emanates joy with its upbeat and danceable tracks. It is a fusion of traditional African rhythms, jazz, funk, and soul music. The album features Kidjo's powerful vocals along with guest appearances from artists like Bono, John Legend, and Dianne Reeves. Some of the standout tracks from OYO include "Zelie," "Bomba," and "Move On Up." Overall, OYO is a beautiful and eclectic album that showcases Kidjo's immense talent and love for African music.
On Oyo, Angelique Kidjo pays tribute to the people who inspired her career, including Miriam Makeba, and American R&B artists like Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and Otis Redding. And while the tunes Kidjo tackles may be familiar, her arrangements turn them inside out and shed new light on their African roots.
DJIN DJIN
TRACKLIST
Ae Ae (3:31)
Djin Djin (4:18)
Gimme Shelter (4:08)
Salala (3:24)
Senamou / C'est L'Amour (3:44)
Pearls (5:05)
Sedjedo (3:56)
Papa (4:34)
Arouna (3:35)
Awan N'la (3:29)
Emma (3:29)
Mama Golo Papa (3:41)
Lonlon (4:54)
Arouna / Bonus Track (3:34)
Emma / Bonus Track (3:32)
// RAZOR & TIE
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Coming full circle, Angelique Kidjo returns to her Beninese roots for the star-studded Djin Djin album, whose title, which loosely translates as 'seize the day', aptly sums up the set and its themes. With its many moods, fusions of styles, exploration of serious issues, uplifting themes, and alternately haunting or infectious melodies, Djin Djin is a stunning set, enhanced by the efforts of the fabulous musicians within and Tony Visconti's masterful production. Winner of the Grammy award in 2007 for Best Contemporary World Music Album, Djin Djin features performances from a range of guest musicians, including Carlos Santana, Alicia Keys, Branford Marsalis, Josh Groban, Peter Gabriel, Ziggy Marley, among others.
OYAYA!
TRACKLIST
Seyin Djro (4:33)
Congoleo (3:40)
Bala Bala (3:41)
Oulala (3:30)
N'Yin Wan Nou We (4:22)
Conga Habanera (3:58)
Le Monde Comme Un Bébé (2:42)
Mutoto Kwanza (3:18)
Adje Dada (4:12)
Djovamin Yi (5:16)
Dje Dje L'Aye (2:52)
Macumba (4:09)
Bissimilai (3:41)
// COLOMBIA
Album Available
Angelique Kidjo's 2004 album, Oyaya!, is a mesmerizing blend of African, Afro-Cuban, and Brazilian rhythms that will transport you to the heartbeat of Africa. Featuring artists like Dave Matthews, Branford Marsalis, and the soulful vocals of the late South African singer, Busi Mhlongo, the album is a vibrant celebration of African roots and culture. Kidjo's powerful vocals and her seamless incorporation of various musical styles create a unique sound that is both uplifting and mesmerizing. With songs that speak to love, unity, and the power of music to bring people together, Oyaya! is a truly unforgettable musical journey that will leave you feeling energized and revitalized.
BLACK IVORY SOUL
TRACKLIST
Refavela (4:15)
Tumba (3:48)
Les Enfants Perdus (3:32)
Bahia (3:33)
Ne Cédez Jamais (3:55)
Iemanja (4:25)
Afirika (4:15)
Olofoofo (4:14)
Ces Petits Riens (2:14)
Black Ivory Soul / Edit (4:17)
Ominira (4:23)
Okan Bale (3:32)
Iwoya / Duet With Dave Matthews (3:47)
Mondjuba (3:04)
Les Enfants Perdus / Single Version (3:46)
// COLOMBIA
Album Available
Black Ivory Soul, Angelique Kidjo's exploration of the connection between her native Benin and the Bahian region in the north east of Brazil, might just be her most consistent and satisfying effort to date. "Tumba," fairly crackles with crisp axé rhythms that drive the song along, while "Ominira" and "Afrika" makes the distance between the two continents seem very small indeed. Kidjo uses her trademark lush harmonies throughout the album, and she's in great voice, even content to play second fiddle to Dave Matthews on "Iwoya,". On the whole this record's heart is in art, not commerce, even tossing in a spare, loving cover of Serge Gainsbourg's "Ces Petits Riens" to close things out. This time around, Kidjo seems to have followed her muse, and the results are, virtually, everything she's always promised to do.
OREMI
TRACKLIST
Introduction (0:38)
Voodoo Child / Slight Return (3:49)
Never Know (4:43)
Babalao (4:31)
Loloye (3:52)
Itche Koutche (5:57)
Open Your Eyes (4:28)
Yaki Yaki (3:41)
Give It Up (4:21)
Oremi (3:48)
Orubaba (4:17)
No Worry (3:41)
// ISLAND RECORDS
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Afro-pop star Angelique Kidjo's last album of the 1990s was her best yet. Titled Oremi, which means "friends," her fifth album was a tour de force with many great collaborations, including hip-hop star Kelly Price ("Open Your Eyes"), Robbie Neville, Cassandra Wilson (the duet "Never Know"), and Branford Marsalis. The first CD in a proposed "American" trilogy, Oremi explores the connections between African music and R&B. The album begins with a reinterpretation of Jimi Hendrix's "Voodoo Child," perhaps the best cover of his material ever. Oremi, however, is not simply a stylistic album; higher consciousness and political sentiments are here too, especially with the impassioned plea in "Babalao" to care for the world's youth. This album is Angelique Kidjo's strongest, most inspired one. Oremi is sexy, thrilling, and powerful.
FIFA
TRACKLIST
The Sound Of The Drums (4:58)
Wombo Lombo (4:15)
Welcome (4:26)
Shango (4:53)
Bitchifi (4:27)
Fifa (3:57)
Goddess Of The Sea (4:11)
Akwaba (4:24)
Koro-Koro (3:41)
Naima (4:31)
MANGO // ISLAND RECORDS
Album Available
Angelique Kidjo's fifth album, titled Fifa, was released in 1996. The album was a departure from her previous work as it featured a more stripped-down approach with a heavier emphasis on live instrumentation. Fifa was inspired by Kidjo's travels throughout Africa and the Caribbean, incorporating various musical styles from these regions. The album's title, Fifa, means "dance" in the Fon language spoken in Benin. Kidjo's powerful vocals and energetic rhythms are on full display in Fifa, making it a fan favorite and a testament to her ability to constantly evolve as an artist.
Angelique Kidjo's fifth album Fifa saw the artist experimenting further with the Western genres of soul and pop, resulting in her most mainstream record to date. As evidenced by "Naima," the stunning collaboration with Carlos Santana, Kidjo's instincts for pairing African rhythms and Western structures are inspired. Other highlights include "Wombo Lombo," "The Sound of the Drums," and "Shango." A wonderful release.
AYÉ
TRACKLIST
Agolo (4:46)
Adouma (4:27)
Azan Nan Kpé (4:14)
Tatchédogbé (4:20)
Djan-Djan (4:11)
Lon Lon Vadjro (5:10)
Houngbati (4:45)
Idjé-Idjé (5:56)
Yemandja (4:03)
Tombo (4:53)
// MANGO
Album Available
Angelique Kidjo's album Aye, which was released in 1994, is a timeless masterpiece that showcases Kidjo's unique style and musical talents. The album is a fusion of various musical genres, including funk, jazz, reggae, and traditional African rhythms. Kidjo's powerful voice and lyrics add a touch of authenticity to the music, making listeners feel as though they are transported to Africa. Aye is a celebration of African culture and showcases Kidjo's pride in her heritage. The album features collaborations with other African artists, including Papa Wemba and Branford Marsalis, adding layers of diversity to the already versatile sound. Aye is a must-listen for anyone who loves world music and appreciates the beauty of African culture and its music.
Aye features five numbers recorded at Prince's Paisley Park studios, and they reflect the punchy guitar and synth-dominated Minneapolis sound. The other five tunes were recorded in London, with both a dance-soul flavor and nice horn backing and arrangements. With Aye, Angelique Kidjo links all her interests in a respectable pop effort with some African elements.
LOGOZO
TRACKLIST
Batonga
Tche-Tche
Logozo
We-We
Malaika
Ewa Ka Djo
Kaleta
Eledjire
Senie
Ekoleya
// MANGO
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Angelique Kidjo's album titled Logozo is a brilliant showcase of her unique style and artistic vision. Released in 1991, the album features an eclectic mix of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and rhythms from her native Benin. The lyrics of the songs are a powerful reflection of Angelique's experiences growing up in Africa and her deep connection to her heritage. The album's title track, "Logozo," is a perfect example of her ability to blend traditional African music with modern pop and rock influences. With Logozo, Angelique Kidjo firmly established herself as one of the most dynamic and innovative artists of her generation, and a true pioneer of African music on the global stage.
Afro-funk, reggae, samba, salsa, gospel, jazz, Zairean rhumba, zouk, and makossa are combined through the music of soulful Benin-born, Paris-based vocalist Angélique Kidjo.
PARAKOU
TRACKLIST
Alindjo
Zanku
Doliéo
Agossi
Kpeti-Kpeti
Gogbahoun
Blewu
Yonnoun
Tanyin
1989 // ISLAND RECORDS
Angelique Kidjo's album Parakou is a vibrant and energetic collection of songs that pays homage to her West African roots. The album is named after the city where Kidjo was born and raised, and its tracks are infused with the rhythms and instruments of the region. Parakou showcases Kidjo's talent for blending traditional and contemporary sounds to create music that is both timeless and fresh. With its infectious melodies, rich harmonies, and powerful messages of unity and strength, Parakou is an album that will lift your spirits and move your soul.
PRETTY
TRACKLIST
Assi Dida (3:18)
Bella-Bellow (4:54)
Gbeme Ho (3:47)
Gbe Agossi (4:41)
Ninivé (4:18)
Afiwa (4:17)
Na Nde (3:13)
// JENGOU MUSIC
As a result of appearing on local radio, Angélique went on to meet the renowned Cameroonian singer and producer Ekambi Brillant who invited the young 20-year-old singer into the studio to record her debut album. Angélique ended up flying to Paris, for the first time in her life, to record with Brillant and the album "Pretty" (co-produced by Angélique's brother, Oscar Kidjo) hit record stores in 1980.
The album proved a phenomenal success in Africa, spawning two successful hit singles, "Pretty" and "Ninivé". Consequently, Ms. Kidjo was catapulted to overnight fame in West Africa, thousands of fans all the way from Togo to the Ivory Coast flocking to see 'Angélique Pretty' perform live.