Angélique Kidjo and Davido’s ‘Joy’ Surges in Popularity, Celebrating African Music

Angélique Kidjo and Davido’s latest collaboration, “Joy,” has quickly gained momentum, amassing over 4 million streams and climbing to #7 on the Nigerian National Airplay Chart. The music video, released on October 2, was directed by Dammy Twitch, who also shot their first collaboration, “Na Money,” from Davido’s 2023 album Timeless.

Filmed in St. Tropez (France) and Nigeria, the video captures the vibrant connection between Kidjo and Davido. The two artists began working on “Joy” after a chance reunion in New York earlier this summer. The song, recorded in New York City, marks their second collaboration and features lyrics in both Yoruba and English, emphasizing resilience and positivity.

This release follows Kidjo’s recent single, “Sunlight To My Soul,” signaling a new phase in her long career, which includes over four decades of global influence, specially in the world music scene. Davido, a leader in the Afrobeats movement, continues to build on his 2023 success with his album Timeless, which earned Grammy nominations and broke streaming records.

Angélique Kidjo’s Legacy

Angélique Kidjo, a multi-Grammy-winning artist and 2023 Polar Music Prize recipient, is one of the world’s most influential musicians. She combines the West African traditions of her Beninese upbringing with American R&B, funk, jazz, and global influences. Kidjo’s music is celebrated for its fusion of deep-rooted tradition and innovative exploration. Her 2021 album, Mother Nature, featured collaborations with Burna Boy, Sampa The Great, and Yemi Alade, underscoring her ability to connect with younger generations of African musicians.

Kidjo’s career highlights include Grammy-winning albums such as Mother Nature (2021), Celia (2019), and EVE (2014), as well as her acclaimed interpretation of The Talking Heads’ Remain in Light. Her collaborations extend beyond the music world, partnering with artists like Yo-Yo Ma and Philip Glass, and she remains a vocal advocate for social justice.

Davido: The King of Afrobeats

Davido’s career, spanning over a decade, has cemented his status as an international music icon. Known as “The King of Afrobeats,” Davido has garnered over 5 billion streams and 1.2 billion video views. His 2023 album Timeless set streaming records and earned three Grammy nominations, solidifying his place in global music.

Davido has also made waves with his sold-out tours and TikTok challenges. His influence continues to expand as he bridges the gap between African music and global audiences.