Benin-born Angelique Kidjo has released her new single 'Move on Up,' included on her upcoming concept album 'Oyo.' Expected to release April 6, the album pays tribute to music inspired by Kidjo during her childhood in Benin. Fusing African culture elements with Curtis Mayfield's original 1970 soul funk track with the same name, 'Move on Up' is dedicated to the children in Africa and features collaborators John Legend (who has been involved in programs to build wells and schools in Africa) and Bono (who has made significant stride with his humanitarian work , specifically the non-profit One).
Other tracks on the record include Aretha Franklin's 'Baby I Love You' featuring Dianne Reeves, Santana's 'Samba Pati' featuring Roy Hargrove and Miriam Makeba's 'Lakutshona Llanga.' Helmed by Kidjo and producer Jean Hebrail, the record includes Beninese guitar player Lionel Loueke, jazz bassist Christian McBride, drummer Kendrick Scott and Senegalese percussionist Thiokho Diagne.
"This is the story of my childhood," she tells Spinner in regards to her concept album. "All these songs brought me to where I am today, inspired me to do the music I have been doing for many, many years. This music has always been my Bible, the thing that reminds me what is the mission of the arts." Oyo is a follow-up to the Kidjo's 2007 contemporary world-music Grammy Award-winning album 'Djin Djin.' To hear 'Move on Up,' tune into AOL Radio's World Music station.
Listen to World Music Radio
