Angélique Kidjo October 30, 2008

Eisenhower Auditorium

Bono, the lead singer of the rock band U2, calls her “the galvanizing voice of sub-Saharan Africa.” Music lovers around the planet call her a great singer, songwriter, and humanitarian. Angélique Kidjo draws upon her West African roots to merge Afro-funk, reggae, gospel, salsa, jazz, and other styles with American rock, pop, and soul to fashion a mesmerizing sound without borders. She grew up in Benin, relocated to Paris in her early 20s, and now makes her home in New York City. Kidjo’s striking voice, compelling stage presence, and fluency in four languages have made her a leading light in world music. Her most recent release, Djin Djin, took home the 2008 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album. Kidjo has long collaborated with musicians from many cultures. Her Grammy-winning disc includes guests Peter Gabriel, Josh Groban, Alicia Keys, Branford Marsalis, Carlos Santana, and Joss Stone.

Official Website: http://www.cpa.psu.edu