Angelique Kidjo Warns Artists Against Singing for Politicians: “Power Shifts, and You Go With It”

|By Queen Banigo

Grammy-winning Beninese singer Angelique Kidjo has cautioned musicians against using their art to glorify politicians or political parties, stressing that political power is fleeting while music should remain timeless.

Speaking on a recent episode of the Female Poets Society Podcast, the global music icon said she deliberately avoids making songs for politicians because such alliances often strip artists of their authenticity and longevity.

“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,” Kidjo recalled.

She urged her colleagues to stay true to their craft and serve as the voice of the people rather than tools of political influence.

“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 shifts, you’re off the window,” she added.

Kidjo’s message reinforces her long-standing advocacy for social consciousness in music, reminding artists that integrity outlives political cycles.