Angelique Kidjo
Hot off her recent win at the Grammy Awards for Best Music Album for Eve, Benin born vocalist, author and activist Angelique Kidjo is set to return to Australia for a run of shows in conjunction with the Byron Bay Bluesfest, with the final stop being in Sydney next weekend.
The win at this years Grammy Awards makes Kidjo a two time recipient of the award, which she described by saying “I still can’t believe it but it is a reality that I have come to embrace. It is great when your work is recognised by your peers and it means a lot to me.” As a follow up to Eve Kidjo has just released Sings, which was produced alongside a gigantic 110 piece orchestra that one would assume would be extremely taxing. However, according to Kidjo, this was a challenge she wanted to embrace. “There are so many different sounds that come around, that come and go and you just feel humbled doing it. It’s a challenge as a musician but it’s a great challenge because I can grow into that and discover new avenues for my own voice.”
For Kidjo, music has always been a passion project that helps her spread her message of “one music, one people, one human family.” From an early age, this mindset was slowly formed. “As a child, the traditional musicians in my country told me over and over again when you have a talent, whatever it is; it’s not for you to keep. It is for you to use to empower other people.” Over the years, Kidjo has demonstrated this through her music, advocacy and philanthropic efforts. Whilst speaking to Kidjo, it was clear that she has never taken any of her success for granted and is thankful for all of the support. “I am always humbled and grateful to live off my passion and to be able to travel around the world through music to meet new people and cultures” she said.
Despite all of the seriousness behind her message, Kidjo stressed that music is also still about the fun. “We have fun on stage and the public can see that and have fun with us. The beauty of our show is that I like people to participate, to sing and to dance. That’s just how we do it in Benin. It’s communion time: it’s a moment where you leave your worries, enjoy, pause and think about yourself. I just want people to come, loosen up and have fun”
Apr 12, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, $79-114+b.f, sydneyoperahouse.com
