The artists
Exceptional artists from 9 to 11 January 2025
Get an overview of the Vodun Days programme, with spectacular festivities and celebrations on 9, 10 and 11 January 2025 in the heart of the historic city of Ouidah.
Alèkpéhanhou
Born in Abomey, Michel Loucou, known as Alèkpéhanhou, is an emblematic singer of Benin and the master of ‘Zinli rénové’, a musical style rooted in the traditions of Danxomè. He has modernised the genre by incorporating contemporary instruments. Winner of the ‘Cassette d’or’, he has left his mark on Benin’s musical history.
Amy Mako
Amy Mako’s spellbinding voice explores the richness of Beninese sounds, blending them with contemporary influences. Her authenticity and passion for music are reflected in her performances, making her an artist to watch on the African music scene.
Anice Pépé
Anice Pépé is a living legend of traditional music. He draws on ancestral songs and rhythms to create works that reflect the social and cultural realities of his country. With his imposing stage presence and mastery of traditional instruments, he is an iconic figure.
Axel Merryl
A social networking phenomenon, Axel Merryl has made a brilliant transition from content creation to music. His hit ‘Kimi’ and his album ‘Température’ were resounding successes, making him the Beninese with the most views of a video clip. In 2024, he was crowned Best West African Artist at the PRIMUD Awards.
Balé Folclórico da Bahia
The dancers, singers and musicians of the Balé Folclórico da Bahia will be putting on a stunning show in which the spirituality of the Vodun, which crossed the Atlantic, is expressed through vibrant artistic forms such as capoeira and samba de roda.
BIM
Bénin International Musical
Benin International Musical (BIM) brings together musicians who tell the story and soul of the African continent through a vibrant reinterpretation of Vodun culture. Fusing rock, rap and ancestral rhythms, each BIM performance is transformed into a contemporary and immersive ceremony.
Bobowê
Bobowè, the rising star of Beninese music, has established himself as a guardian of traditional rhythms with a strong modern touch. His compositions draw on his Beninese identity, blending songs, percussion and modern melodies. He is appreciated for his ability to transport audiences into the essence of Benin’s traditions.
DJ DJABI
DJ Djabi is one of Benin’s leading DJs, renowned for his ability to set any stage on fire. A multi-disciplinary creator, he draws on his many inspirations to deliver dynamic, surprising sets. From afrobeat and afrohouse to amapiano and rap, every DJ Djabi performance is a true musical experience, combining energy, innovation and passion.
DJ Vogis
Recently crowned best DJ in Côte d’Ivoire at the PRIMUD 2024 awards, DJ Vogis promises to turn Vodun Days into an unforgettable musical experience. With an eclectic style, he’ll be drawing on his many inspirations to create a unique atmosphere blending African sounds, electro rhythms and urban influences. Prepare yourself for a vibrant, upbeat performance, where each set will become a veritable sonic voyage.
DJ WAFA
Originally from Benin, DJ Wafa is a rising star on the Afrohouse scene, known for her talent in fusing traditional African rhythms with modern electronic sounds. Passionate about her roots, she is committed to promoting Benin’s cultural heritage, and Vodun in particular, at the heart of her performances and events.
Faty
Fatima Kouchékeho, aka Faty, is a complete artist who fuses traditional Beninese rhythms with modern sounds. Originally from Avrankou, she has made a name for herself with her captivating voice and unique performances. With a varied repertoire, Faty explores universal themes such as love, resilience and the celebration of African identity.
Gbêzé
Gbêzé is a Beninese artist deeply committed to preserving and revitalising traditional songs. He enriches his repertoire with modern elements to appeal to a varied audience. His performances, often imbued with spirituality, celebrate ancestral traditions while making them accessible to new generations.
KASSAV'
Kassav’ revolutionised zouk, propelling it onto the international scene. With timeless classics like ‘Zouk-la sé sèl médikaman nou ni’, ‘Ou lé’ and ‘Rété’, their innovative fusion of Caribbean rhythms and African influences has inspired generations of artists. Their on-stage energy and creativity have made them living legends of world music.
Kumpan
Edith N’Tcha M’po, known as Kumpan, an artist from northern Benin, is a singer with a powerful and moving voice. She is known for her ability to convey deep emotions and powerful messages through her songs, which combine the sounds of the north with universal rhythms. Kumpan is a respected and admired figure on Benin’s traditional music scene.
Richard Flash
An accomplished Beninese artist, Richard Flash is a singular zouk artist. His commitment to promoting Beninese culture has earned him considerable recognition, most notably at PRIMUD 2024, where he was awarded a special prize for his contribution to the development of art and culture.
SAGBOHAN
Danialou
Artist, singer and multi-instrumentalist Sagbohan Danialou is a living legend in Beninese music. An undisputed master of traditional rhythms, he transcends borders with his authentic compositions. His musical genius and deep attachment to his Beninese roots have made him a key icon in Benin’s cultural heritage.
SEIDOU
Barassounon
Artist, singer and composer, griot Barassounon is a virtuoso of traditional Beninese rhythms. He is a master of the art of instruments, which he showcases in compositions that celebrate the rites and customs of Benin. His talent and commitment have made him a torch-bearer for traditional Beninese music.
Sessimè
A Beninese singer with a singular voice, Sessimè stands out for her ability to fuse traditional sounds with modern influences. Her engaging compositions and charismatic stage presence have enabled her to perform on international stages, raising the profile of Beninese music around the world.
TOOFAN
Togolese duo Toofan are renowned for their ‘gweta’ style, which blends African rhythms with urban sounds. Their collaboration with major artists such as Kassav’ and Fally Ipupa is testament to their growing influence on the music scene. Their ability to innovate while remaining true to their cultural roots sets them apart in the African music industry.
X-Time & Ghix
X-Time and Ghix are an innovative duo from Benin, spearheading the Adjapiano wave. This musical movement is modernising traditional music, creating a sound identity that is in vogue with new generations. Their dynamic collaboration and boundless creativity are bringing new energy to the Beninese music scene.
