Angelique Kidjo's first performing experience was at the age of six, as a dancer in her mother's theatre troupe. Born in the Rebublic of Benin, in the Western part of Africa, Angelique reveals her lovely voice as an experienced musician in her mother tongue and other languages.
As a teenager Angelique was inspired to write songs by listening to the music of the late Jimmy Hendrix, Carlos Santana, Miriam Makeba, James Brown, Fela Kuti, the Beatles and Aretha Franklin. Before the age of twenty she was one of Africa's best professional musicians. Difficulties with the political situation in her country prompted her to settle in Paris. Signed on by Chris Blackwell to the "Mango" label, today Angelique's music is heard in every part of the world.
"My style of music varies from afro-funk, reggae, samba, salsa, gospel, jazz, Zairean rumba, souk and makossa," which combined together, creates her soulful unique sound of music. "In all the years since I started singing, I've never performed a song I didn't love. Every song of mine is like a baby to me. It has its fragility and its strength and I will never forget it because it's part of me. But as with everything you truly love, you have to let it out into the world," said Angelique.
Her album "Black Ivory Soul," released two years ago, explores her Brazilian connection, allowing her voice to find a new, more sensitive space. It is the work of an experienced artist. "I will never forget the fans everywhere in the world who came to the shows, and producers and many musicians who shared their good advice and played masterfully. Music is not only emotion and groove, it's something that speaks of culture and its people," she said.
Article comments
1 - HW Saxton
Joel, Your taste in music is impeccable.
Angelique has one of the most lilting &
beautiful voices I've ever heard. I like
her best when she sings in her native
Yoruban language. Next to Tshala Muana
and Sade she is one of my favorites.
2 - joel savage
Thanks H.W Saxton. Your post has notified me that there is a musician somewhere, by the name Tshala Muana. I will try my best to find out who she is, to study her background and the kind of music she plays. Once again thank you.
From the writer.
3 - HW Saxton
Joel, I think you would like her. She is
from Zaire where she is very popular.
Her music is strongly influenced by the
sounds of 'Soukous' and also Afro/Latin
rhythms from Cuba as well.
4 - Joel savage
Hello H W Saxton, you are right,Tshala Muana is a very good musician. I just listened to some of her classic recordings. Fortunately or unfortunately, she is no more performing. She is now a politician, member of parliament in tne government of Joseph Kabila, the president of Democratic Republic of Congo, now Zaire. I will soon post the article about her. Thank you. Joel
5 - enio f. de lima
Anyone please send me the lyrics of the mucis iemanja, from the album black ivory soul.
thank you very very very very much.
enio.