Angélique Kidjo's Interpretation of "Jerusalema" Earns 2026 Grammy Nomination

The legendary Beninese vocalist and multiple Grammy Award winner, Angélique Kidjo, has once again cemented her status on the international music stage. She has secured a nomination for the prestigious 2026 Grammy Awards, earning recognition in the category of Best Global Music Performance. This honor specifically acknowledges her unique and powerful rendition of the track "Jerusalema." The original global smash hit was first brought to life by the talented South African artists Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode.

The highly anticipated awards ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, 2026, and will be hosted at the Crypto.com Arena located in Los Angeles. This particular nomination does more than just highlight Kidjo’s exceptional artistic skill and enduring relevance; it serves as a powerful testament to the growing and sustained global influence of African music. The genre continues to demonstrate its remarkable power to unite diverse audiences worldwide, effortlessly transcending traditional barriers of language and cultural background, proving that rhythm is truly a universal dialect.

The Enduring Legacy of "Jerusalema"

Following the announcement of her nomination, Angélique Kidjo publicly acknowledged and expressed profound gratitude to the original creators of the song. She characterized "Jerusalema" not merely as a piece of music, but as a "voice of hope that emerged from Africa to the world." This sentiment captures the profound and uplifting impact the song has had since its initial release, resonating far beyond the dance floor.

The original recording, which debuted in 2019, rapidly transformed into a worldwide anthem of unity and resilience. Its reach was staggering, accumulating more than 500 million views on YouTube alone. Furthermore, the track sparked a massive, spontaneous global dance flashmob, captivating people across all continents and age groups. This viral phenomenon demonstrated the track's universal appeal and infectious rhythm, cementing its place in modern cultural history as a source of shared joy.

For Angélique Kidjo, her engagement with "Jerusalema" transcends a simple cover version or musical tribute. She views the song as a profound "prayer for humanity." It serves as a powerful testament to the vitality and inspirational capacity of African culture, showcasing its ability to uplift and motivate the entire world community through its infectious beat and hopeful message.

Even several years after its debut, "Jerusalema" remains a potent symbol of optimism and faith for millions globally. It offers a timely reminder that music possesses an unparalleled capacity to elevate the human spirit, particularly during moments when conventional language proves inadequate or fails to convey necessary emotion. The melody speaks volumes where words fall short.

Kidjo’s continued success and her ability to expertly reinterpret contemporary African classics solidify her enduring role as a crucial cultural bridge between the continent and the rest of the world. By lending her signature, powerful artistry to a track already beloved by millions, she ensures that the profound message and infectious rhythm of "Jerusalema" continue to resonate deeply within the global music landscape. This nomination further elevates the visibility and prestige of the Best Global Music Performance category, recognizing the richness of musical traditions originating outside the Western mainstream.