Two iconic figures of African music (Angélique Kidjo from Benin) and French music (Florent Pagny) join their voices to offer us yet another version of the legendary song "Malaïka". A very well-known work on the African music scene.

At Angélique Kidjo's initiative, Florent Pagny is invited to feature on her latest album, a tribute to her mother. "To finish my album 'HOPE!!' dedicated to my mother who left us five years ago, I wanted to perform 'Malaika'. It was her favorite song, the one she always asked me to sing to her," the African diva explains.

The song "Malaika" has influenced several generations of African artists since its release in the 1960s. It occupies an important place in African discography.

Happy to have made this duet with her friend Florent Pagny, it is a great honor to pay such a vibrant tribute to her mother through this beautiful song which she intends to offer to her fans as a moving reminder of the one who always motivated her in difficult times.

"I am so happy to have been able to create this new version with Florent Pagny, whose voice I deeply love. It's a song that is so close to my heart! When we recorded it in the studio, time stood still and I felt my mother's presence beside us. I immediately told Florent: I think he likes this version. 'Malaika' is available everywhere today and I hope it will touch you as much as it touched us."

History of the song "Malaika"

Considered one of the most iconic songs in Africa and East Africa, "Malaika" means "angel" in Swahili. It was first performed by Fadhili William, a Kenyan composer, singer, and guitarist, in 1958. He is considered the principal author of this cult classic, which remains a subject of debate among international critics.

It was covered for the second time by the South African diva Miriam Makeba in 1965 under the title "My Angel", in her album "An Evening With" in a duet with Harry Belafonte.

"Malaika" is available on Angélique Kidjo's streaming platforms: https://AngeliqueKidjo1.lnk.to/malaikaFA