Award-winning Beninese-French singer and global music icon Angelique Kidjo has once again made Africa proud with another Grammy nomination, solidifying her position as one of the most powerful and influential voices on the continent and beyond.
The legendary performer, known for her vibrant fusion of African rhythms, jazz, funk, and world beats, was nominated in the Best Global Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammy Awards for her soul-stirring rendition of Jerusalema, the global hit originally created by South African producer Master KG and vocalist Nomcebo Zikode.
Taking to her official Instagram page, Angelique Kidjo shared her excitement and gratitude after learning about her latest Grammy nod. The celebrated artist praised Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode for crafting one of the most uplifting and unifying anthems of recent years.
“So proud to see Jerusalema nominated in the Best Global Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammy® Awards,” Kidjo wrote.
“Thanks to the writers of this great song: @masterkgsa @nomcebo_zikode.”
Her heartfelt message quickly went viral, attracting a flood of congratulatory comments from fans, fellow musicians, and public figures around the world. Many praised Angelique Kidjo for her continued role in championing African creativity on the global stage, while also acknowledging Master KG and Nomcebo for their contribution to the continent’s musical legacy.
Angelique Kidjo Brings African Music to Global Stages
This latest recognition adds another milestone to Angelique Kidjo’s illustrious career, which has spanned more than four decades. Known for her energetic performances, powerful vocals, and commitment to showcasing Africa’s rich musical diversity, Kidjo has become one of the most respected figures in world music.
Her version of Jerusalema combines traditional African instrumentation with her signature Afro-fusion sound, creating a new layer of depth to the already iconic hit. By reinterpreting the song, she not only celebrates its South African origins but also reinforces the unity and cultural exchange that music can foster across borders.
Music critics have hailed her rendition as a “spiritual and soulful” reimagining of the viral anthem that captivated millions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The track’s uplifting message of hope and togetherness continues to resonate worldwide — and Angelique Kidjo’s version adds her unmistakable warmth and artistic maturity.
While Angelique Kidjo celebrates her Grammy nomination, her acknowledgment of Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode has also brought renewed attention to their ongoing legal dispute with Open Mic Productions over ownership and royalties of Jerusalema.
The song, originally released in 2019, became a global sensation in 2020 when millions participated in the #JerusalemaDanceChallenge. It transcended borders, languages, and cultures, becoming one of Africa’s biggest musical exports in history.
Despite the controversy surrounding the song’s rights, both Master KG and Nomcebo have received global recognition for their creative genius — and now, Angelique Kidjo’s Grammy nomination further cements Jerusalema’s status as a timeless African anthem.
Fans have praised Kidjo for using her platform to spotlight African collaborators and for continuing to promote Pan-African unity through her work.
“Angelique always gives credit where it’s due,” one fan wrote online. “She’s not just a performer; she’s a bridge connecting African artists to the world.”
Born in Benin and based in France, Angelique Kidjo has long been regarded as one of the world’s most accomplished and respected artists. Over her career, she has won five Grammy Awards, with multiple nominations in categories such as Best World Music Album and Best Global Music Performance.
Her achievements extend beyond music — she is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, an advocate for education and women’s rights, and a vocal supporter of African heritage preservation. Through her foundation, the Batonga Foundation, she has empowered thousands of young girls in Africa with access to education and leadership opportunities.
In addition to her musical success, Angelique Kidjo has collaborated with some of the biggest names in global music, including Alicia Keys, Yemi Alade, Sting, Burna Boy, and Carlos Santana. Each collaboration has further showcased her ability to blend genres, languages, and cultural influences while maintaining an authentic African identity.
As she celebrates another Grammy nomination, Angelique Kidjo remains focused on creating music that inspires change and celebrates Africa’s vibrancy. In recent interviews, she has emphasized that her mission is to continue “telling Africa’s story through sound” and ensuring that young African artists have the confidence to own their voices and heritage.
“Every award, every stage, every song is an opportunity to represent where I come from,” she once said. “Africa’s music is the heartbeat of the world.”
Her nomination for Jerusalema reaffirms that commitment — blending artistry, gratitude, and advocacy into one powerful statement of African excellence.
As the world awaits the 2026 Grammy Awards, fans and fellow artists continue to rally behind Angelique Kidjo, celebrating her for what she has always been: a trailblazer, a unifier, and an enduring symbol of African pride on the global stage.
Source- Fakaza
