This amazing Benin-born vocalist has united the rhythms and spirits of Africa with the vibe of the African Diaspora, masterfully taking it places where few world music artists have gone before. On her 2001 retrospective, which includes tracks from 5 previous knock-out successes in many parts of the planet, her compelling contralto soars and swirls above percolating percussions, deep grooves, phat beats, chank-a-chink guitars and diva harmonies, in a melange of styles and languages blending African Beat, funk, reggae and pop. Includes Batonga, Naima with Carlos Santana, The Sound of the Drums, and the Jimi Hendrix-inspired Voodoo Child.

Kidjo,Angelique