African music lovers are in for a treat as Joy, the collaboration between Angélique Kidjo and Davido, surges in popularity.
Released this month, the music video has already racked up over 4 million streams.
ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO AND DAVIDO’S SONG
It’s safe to say that this song has captured hearts across the globe, and its momentum shows no signs of slowing down, according to World Music Central.
Directed by Dammy Twitch, the music video for Joy was filmed in the stunning locales of St. Tropez, France, and Nigeria.
Twitch also directed their first collaboration, Na Money, from Davido’s 2023 album Timeless.
ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO AND DAVIDO’S MUSIC VIDEO
The video beautifully captures the vibrant energy between the two artists, while showcasing the magic of African landscapes and culture.
The collaboration began after the two met up unexpectedly in New York earlier this year. This chance encounter sparked the idea for Joy, which they recorded in New York City.
“Joy is about resilience and positivity,” says Kidjo. “We wanted to create a song that lifts people up, especially in these challenging times.”
RHYTHMS OF AFROBEATS
Sung in both Yoruba and English, the track weaves together the powerful rhythms of Afrobeats with Kidjo’s signature global sound, according to Red Light Management.
As Davido explained, “I’ve always admired Angélique’s ability to blend African tradition with modern sounds. Working with her again was a blessing.”
DAVIDO THE ‘KING OF AFROBEATS’
For Davido, this song is another win following the massive success of his 2023 album Timeless.
That album, which also featured Kidjo on the track Na Money, set streaming records and earned him three Grammy nominations.
It marked another high point in a career that has already made him a global music icon, according to Okay Africa
Known as ‘The King of Afrobeats,’ Davido has amassed over 5 billion streams and 1.2 billion video views.
ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO’S CAREER
His influence continues to grow, particularly among younger generations, thanks to his sold-out tours and viral TikTok challenges.
Meanwhile, Kidjo’s legacy remains unparalleled. The Beninese singer is a multi-Grammy-winning artist whose career spans over four decades.
She is hailed as one of the most influential musicians in the world. Her fusion of West African traditions with American R&B, funk, and jazz has gained her fans worldwide.
ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO’S ACCOLADES
Kidjo’s collaborations extend beyond music, partnering with celebrated artists like Yo-Yo Ma and Philip Glass.
Her latest release, Joy, follows her recent single Sunlight To My Soul, which signals yet another chapter in her evolving career.
Kidjo’s 2021 album Mother Nature also saw her collaborating with a younger generation of African musicians, including Burna Boy and Yemi Alade.
POWER OF UNITY
The album earned her another Grammy, cementing her place as a bridge between generations of African artists.
“Music is about connection,” says Kidjo. “Whether it’s in Benin, Nigeria, or South Africa, we all share similar stories. Joy is our way of bringing people together.”
ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO AND DAVIDO, THE AFRICAN ICONS
This collaboration between Kidjo and Davido is not just about two icons making music. It’s about celebrating African culture, resilience, and the power of unity.
Fans across the continent, including in South Africa, are buzzing with excitement.
As Joy continues to make waves, it’s clear that Kidjo and Davido have struck gold once again. African music lovers should brace themselves for more from this dynamic duo.
After all, as Davido says, “We’re just getting started!”
DO YOU THINK JOY CAPTURES THE SPIRIT OF AFRICAN CULTURE AND UNITY? WHY OR WHY NOT?
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