Carnegie Hall Perspectives artist Angélique Kidjo embraces West African traditions of her childhood in Benin with elements of American R&B, funk, and jazz, as well as influences from Europe and Latin America.

Moderated by John Schaefer, this episode features Kidjo alongside pianist Thierry Vaton in performances of “Independence Cha Cha,” “Soul Makossa,” “Bemba Colora,” and “Afirika.” Kidjo is also joined by guitarist Dominic James for “Malaika” and Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade for “Shekere.” Other highlights include Dianne Reeves with “Ella’s Song” and Baaba Maal’s performance of “Baayo.”