Africa influence has been one of the most prominent traits in world music. Being a music lover you must know about the faces behind these influences that have changed the course of world music. Here are 10 names of incredibly famous African artists who have impacted world music greatly with their unique and charming musical qualities.
1. T.P. Orchestre Poly-Rythmo
Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou is a band from Cotonou, Benin, originally active from the 1960s to the 1980s and founded by singer-guitarist Mélomé Clément. They reformed in 2009 to international recognition. Their work has mixed styles such as funk, afrobeat, psychedelia, jazz and local voodoo influences.
2. Angélique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo’s famous African hit: “Agolo” the video is directed by Michel Meyer, © UNIVERSAL MUSIC, ℗ WARNER CHAPPELL .
3. Salif Keita
Salif Keita (Mali). “The golden voice of Africa” is one of the greatest talents the continent ever produced. His voice and beats are unforgettable.
4. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage: Tiwatope Savage who goes by the stage name Tiwa Savage (also known as the queen of Afrobeat) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress.
5. Oumou Sangaré
DELFT, NETHERLANDS – 7th AUGUST: Singer Oumou Sangare from Mali performs live on stage at Africa Music festival in Delft, Netherlands on 7th August 1993. (photo by Frans Schellekens/Redferns)
6. King Sunny Adé
Nigerian musician King Sunny Ade performs onstage, Chicago, Illinois, August 19, 1983.
7. E. T. Mensah
Emmanuel Tettey Mensah, best known as E.T Mensah a multi-instrumental Ghanaian musician who is revered as the “King of Highlife” music.
8. Femi Kuti
PARIS, FRANCE – APRIL 30: Femi Kuti performs on stage during the International Jazz Day 2015 Global Concert at UNESCO on April 30, 2015 in Paris, France. (Photo by Kristy Sparow/Getty Images for Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz)
9. Franco Luambo
Franco Luambo Makiadi will forever remain in the collective memory of the Congolese as the undisputed “King of Rumba.” Most commonly referred to as Franco
10. Alpha Blondy
Alpha Blondy Angélique Kidjo Blick Bassy Brenda Fassie Cesarea Evora Fatoumata Diawara Fela Kuti Femi Kuti Habib Koité Hugh Masekela Ismaël Lo.