Angelique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo is
one of the few African musicians who have climbed the ladder to reach
international stardom. The musician, usually called "The Black Ivory
Soul," recently was among the Africa United Celebrations who
celebrated the 60th birthday of the legendary Reggae superstar, the late
Bob Marley.
In her youth as a musician, Angelique was inspired by many great musicians, such as Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, etc.
At the celebrations, Kidjo describes Bob Marley's music as powerful on many levels and credits Marley with having opened her eyes to global issues.
"Being born in an African city, it was difficult for me to have a clear understanding of the entire world. Bob Marley's music, with lyrics that everyone can understand, gives you many tales of injustice, discrimination, and slavery. His songs were masterpieces. Every song has a little something that makes it unique." Said Kidjo.
Participating in what has been hailed as an international historical event, Kidjo discussed many issues with young people over the three days of the "Africa Unite Symposium."
The event brought together artists, intellectuals, and youths for deliberations on Africa's past, present, and future through the strong lyrics of Bob Marley's songs, including "Africa Unite", "No Woman No Cry", and "Redemption Song"
The symposium was organized by the Bob Marley and Rita Marley Foundations, the African Union, the World Bank, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF). Angelique Kidjo became a UNICEF Goodwill ambassador on July 25, 2002. Her love and concern for children are very wide.
"Young people are the hope of my continent. When I watch the children of Africa, all dreams seem possible." Said Angelique.