Grammy-winning Beninese music legend Angélique Kidjo has urged her fellow artists to resist the temptation of aligning their craft with political figures or parties, warning that such affiliations often lead to short-lived fame and forgotten legacies.
Speaking on the Female Poets Society podcast, Kidjo reflected on a valuable lesson she learned from her father early in her career, a principle that continues to guide her music and activism.
“My father always used to say to us, especially to me as a singer, do not write music for any political party because they come and they go, and once they’re gone, you go with it,” she recalled.
The veteran performer noted that political power is fleeting, and artists who tie their art to politicians often lose credibility and relevance when regimes change.
Kidjo, who has long been known for using her voice to advocate for social justice and African pride, encouraged artists to remain independent and true to their beliefs instead of serving as mouthpieces for those in authority.
“Write your music with your opinions, be free writing your music. Don’t be sold to somebody because therefore, you don’t become the voice of the people anymore, you become the voice of the power. And when that power shifted, you’re off the window,” she said.
The multi-award-winning singer stressed that true artistry lies in representing the people, not politicians, and in creating songs that outlast political eras.
According to her, musicians who stay rooted in the struggles and hopes of ordinary people ensure that their music remains timeless, regardless of who holds power.
“Once that power changes,” she warned, “such artists are quickly forgotten.”
Through her message, Kidjo reaffirmed her belief that music should serve as a mirror of society, not a campaign tool, and a reminder that authenticity, not political loyalty, is what gives art its lasting voice.
Why Angelique Kidjo doesn’t write or make music for political parties.
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) November 5, 2025