Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has announced a new album titled Hope, revealing a lineup of international guest artists that includes Nigerian stars Davido and Ayra Starr, alongside American music heavyweights Pharrell Williams, Charlie Wilson, PJ Morton and Nile Rodgers.
Kidjo disclosed the project on her social media platforms, noting that the album is scheduled for release on April 24, 2026. The five-time Grammy winner also unveiled a diverse list of collaborators drawn from different genres and regions, highlighting the global nature of the forthcoming project.
Among the artists appearing on the album are Afrobeats star Davido, Grammy nominated singer Ayra Starr, American producer and musician Pharrell Williams, as well as Charlie Wilson, PJ Morton and Nile Rodgers. Other featured acts include Nigerian neo-highlife duo The Cavemen, American rapper Quavo, French singer Dadju, Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz, and South Africa’s Soweto Gospel Choir. Also joining the lineup are Florent Pagny, Brazilian singer Iza and Congolese star Fally Ipupa.
Announcing the project on X, Kidjo described the album as a deeply personal effort and expressed gratitude to the artists who contributed to it.
“5 years in the making: my new album HOPE!! is coming out on April 24th. I put my whole heart into this album and I’m so GRATEFUL to all the great artists who have contributed their genius to the album!”
The forthcoming release will mark Kidjo’s 19th studio album in a career spanning nearly five decades. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential musical figures, she has built a global reputation for blending traditional African sounds with contemporary influences.
Her music often incorporates African folk traditions, layered percussion and multilingual lyrics in Yoruba, French and English, earning both critical acclaim and international recognition.
Over the years, Kidjo has received 16 Grammy nominations and won five awards. In 2011, The Guardian named her among its Top 100 Women in art, film, music and fashion, while Forbes listed her in 2014 as the first woman among “The 40 Most Powerful Celebrities in Africa.”
Ademide Adebayo
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