Popular Beninese singer, Angelique Kidjo, has weighed in on the trend of artists using their music to endorse politicians or political parties.
The Grammy-winning legend explained that she avoids creating songs for political figures because power is temporary, noting that musicians who tie their art to politicians risk fading away once the government changes.
During a recent appearance on the Female Poets Society podcast, Kidjo encouraged fellow musicians to stand with the public rather than with those in authority.
According to her, “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.
She added, “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 shifted, you’re off the window.”