Legendary Beninese singer and five-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo has officially announced her 19th studio album, “Hope!!”, set to arrive on April 24th, 2026. This highly anticipated project, which has been five years in the making, reaffirms Kidjo’s enduring commitment to showcasing African music on a global stage, a mission she has passionately pursued for decades.

“Hope!!” is a 14-track album that carries deep personal significance, as it is dedicated to Kidjo’s late mother, Yvonne. Kidjo describes her mother as a continuous wellspring of optimism and courage, and this dedication resonates throughout the entire record, culminating in the closing track, a heartfelt rendition of “Malaika,” a song her mother cherished dearly.

The album boasts an impressive and diverse list of collaborators, bridging continents, generations, and musical genres. Esteemed artists such as Pharrell Williams, Nile Rodgers, Quavo, Charlie Wilson, Fally Ipupa, Diamond Platnumz, PJ Morton, IZA, Florent Pagny, Dadju, and the Soweto Gospel Choir lend their talents to the project. Notably, “Hope!!” also features prominent Nigerian acts including Davido, Ayra Starr, and The Cavemen, underscoring Kidjo's dedication to uniting sounds from across the African continent and beyond. Pharrell Williams, in addition to his vocal contributions, also produced three tracks for the album in Paris.

The collaboration between Kidjo and Nigerian superstar Davido is a rekindling of a successful musical partnership, as the two have previously worked together on tracks like “Na Money” and “Joy.” Their reunion on “Hope!!” marks another significant chapter in their productive working relationship. The inclusion of burgeoning talents like Ayra Starr and The Cavemen further highlights Kidjo’s vision for contemporary African music.

The first single from the album, “Fall on Me,” features PJ Morton and offers an early glimpse into the album’s overarching tone. Shaped by profound themes of joy, strength, and perseverance, the track sets the emotional groundwork for the entire project. Angélique Kidjo has stated that she poured her whole heart into this album, and the extensive feature list, coupled with its heartfelt dedication and thematic depth, truly reflects this commitment.

“Hope!!” follows Kidjo’s critically acclaimed 2021 album, “Mother Nature,” which garnered a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album. With “Hope!!,” Angélique Kidjo continues to solidify her legacy as an artist who not only transcends musical boundaries but also champions the rich tapestry of African artistry, proving time and again that African music indeed belongs everywhere.