Podcast Summary: All Of It – Angelique Kidjo Performs Live
Podcast Information:
- Title: All Of It
- Host: Alison Stewart, WNYC
- Episode: Angelique Kidjo Performs Live
- Release Date: August 8, 2025
- Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, aiming to engage thinkers, doers, makers, and creators in discussions about the what and why of their work.
Introduction
In this vibrant episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart welcomes the international Grammy-winning superstar Angelique Kidjo. Celebrated by Time magazine as one of the most important people in the world, Kidjo graces the show with her infectious energy and poignant insights just before her electrifying performance at Carnegie Hall. The episode seamlessly blends an in-depth interview with a captivating live performance, offering listeners a comprehensive glimpse into Kidjo’s life, her artistic journey, and her profound views on culture and freedom.
Interview Highlights
A Journey from Benin to Paris (04:28 – 05:02)
Alison Stewart opens the discussion by drawing a parallel between Danao Mengestu's novel Someone Like Us and Angelique Kidjo’s own life. She asks:
Alison Stewart [04:28]: "You know, it was interesting in Danao's book, the journalist, he decides to live in Paris. You live in Paris? From Benin?"
Angelique responds candidly about her forced migration:
Angelique Kidjo [04:36]: "I didn't choose to leave my country, but I have to leave my country."
She delves into the hardships of fleeing from a repressive regime:
Angelique Kidjo [04:43]: "I run away from communism, dictatorship, and that trauma is still with me. When you leave your loved ones, you don't know where you’re going or how to feel at home."
The Trauma of Exile and Family Sacrifice (04:42 – 05:02)
Angelique elaborates on the emotional and logistical challenges of exile:
Angelique Kidjo [04:43]: "For six years I didn't hear the voice of my parents. It took my parents a year to find the money to send me."
She highlights the immense risk her family took:
Angelique Kidjo [05:02]: "The decision impacts not only my life but the whole family because my father and mother taught us to be free thinkers and to speak freely."
Reflections on Democracy and Freedom (05:02 – 08:01)
Angelique shares her skepticism about democracy's durability:
Angelique Kidjo [05:02]: "Once they're in power, they don't go. They will kill you when you want to."
She emphasizes the fragility of freedom and the enduring power of love:
Angelique Kidjo [07:00]: "Love is more powerful than nuclear weapons. It produces all the time."
Parental Influence and the Value of Education (08:01 – 10:15)
Discussing her upbringing, Angelique credits her parents for instilling critical thinking and resilience:
Angelique Kidjo [08:08]: "The part of me that survived is the love of my parents and the value that they've given me."
She reflects on her father's dedication to education:
Angelique Kidjo [09:56]: "My father said, this is your ultimate weapon. Use your brain."
Their relationship was marked by mutual respect and intellectual curiosity:
Angelique Kidjo [10:15]: "If you want to sit on my bed, you sit and you shut up."
Embracing Change and Personal Agency (08:08 – 10:15)
Angelique speaks passionately about adapting to constant change and taking responsibility:
Angelique Kidjo [09:53]: "Never think that this year will finish the next year exactly the same. Change is the fate of nature."
She encourages self-validation and proactive engagement:
Angelique Kidjo [10:00]: "Don't wait for somebody else to validate you. Validate yourself and do something about it."
Live Performances
"Kalele" Performance (03:59 – 04:28)
Angelique Kidjo opens with her spirited performance of "Kalele," setting an energetic tone for the event. The song showcases her signature blend of African rhythms and contemporary sounds, captivating the audience from the start.
"Mama Africa" – A Celebration of Unity and Joy (14:19 – 19:28)
As the highlight of the evening, Angelique delivers a powerful rendition of "Mama Africa." She engages the audience, encouraging them to sing along and embody the song's message of shedding burdens and celebrating togetherness:
Angelique Kidjo [14:44]: "Come on, let's go, let's go, let's go, let's go. Come on, come on, come on."
The performance crescendos with the audience on their feet, dancing and singing, embodying the communal spirit Angelique so passionately advocates.
Conclusion
This episode of All Of It masterfully intertwines Angelique Kidjo's personal narrative with her artistic expression, offering listeners a profound exploration of culture, resilience, and the transformative power of music. From her harrowing experiences fleeing dictatorship to her unwavering belief in love and change, Kidjo's insights resonate deeply, underscored by her vibrant performances that celebrate unity and cultural diversity. Through this episode, WNYC not only showcases Kidjo's exceptional talent but also highlights the broader themes of freedom, education, and the enduring impact of cultural heritage.