Angelique Kidjo Explains Why She Avoids Making Political Music
Beninese music legend and multiple Grammy winner, Angelique Kidjo, has spoken about why she avoids using her music to endorse politicians or political parties.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Female Poets Society podcast, Kidjo said she chooses not to create songs in support of political groups because political power is temporary. She explained that artists who tie their music to a particular administration risk losing credibility and relevance when the government changes.
Kidjo recalled her father’s advice during her early music career, emphasizing the importance of artistic independence.
“My father always used to say, especially to me as a singer, do not write music for any political party because they come and they go. And once they’re gone, you go with it,” she said.
The singer added that musicians should strive to represent the people rather than align themselves with those in authority.
“Write your music with your opinions. Be free writing your music. Don’t be sold to somebody because you don’t become the voice of the people anymore, you become the voice of the power. And when that power shifts, you’re out of the window,” she said.
Kidjo’s comment comes at a time when the intersection between music and politics continues to stir debate across Africa.
