The African Cup of Nations (CAN) is one of the most anticipated sporting events on the African continent. And this year, the 2023 edition which will take place in Abidjan in Ivory Coast is generating even more enthusiasm. But it’s not just on the football fields where the action takes place. Indeed, Universal Music Africa has partnered with the Confederation of African Football to create the official CAN album, thus providing an Ivorian soundtrack to the competition.
The album, which was unveiled at the end of December 2023, brings together some of the continent’s most popular and talented artists. Among them, we find the Ivorian group Magic System, the Nigerian singer Yemi Alade, the French rapper of Ivorian origin Kaaris, as well as other artists such as Vegedream and Cysoul.
The objective of this album is to bring together the cultures and sounds of the different countries participating in the CAN. Thus, the first track of the album, titled “Akwaba”, is a collaboration between Magic System, Yemi Alade and Mohamed Ramadan, which brings a pan-African flavor from the start. This piece, which means “welcome” in the Baoulé language, sets the tone and highlights the openness and warm welcome of Côte d’Ivoire.
Then, the album continues with titles such as “Welcome” by Didi B, Serge Beynaud and Roseline Layo, which offer a mix of rap and festive rhythms, as well as “L’Afrique c’est nous” by Kerozen and Cysoul, an exclusive duo between a Cameroonian artist and an Ivorian artist. These songs convey messages of African pride and unity.
The album also counts on the presence of the African diaspora, with the collaboration between Kaaris and Vegedream on the track “On est ready”. The two French rappers of Ivorian origin put their talent at the service of the competition anthem, with catchy lyrics and a catchy rhythm.
Finally, the album closes with the title “We want to have fun” by Josey and Ayanne, two Ivorian singers. Although this track is the least unifying of the album, it demonstrates the diversity of musical styles in Côte d’Ivoire.
Despite the quality of the songs on this album, some voices have been raised to deplore the lack of diversity in the selection of artists. Indeed, the focus was mainly on Ivorian artists and the diaspora, while legends of African music like Meiway, Angélique Kidjo or Koffi Olomidé were left aside. This would have made it possible to give a more universal dimension to the album and to better represent the musical diversity of the continent.
Overall, the official album of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations offers a dynamic and festive Ivorian soundtrack, reflecting the enthusiasm and passion that surrounds this major sporting competition in Africa. It is a true tribute to African music and a way to celebrate the creativity and talent of artists from the continent. Whether you are a football or music fan, this album will thrill you and put you in the competitive mood. Don’t miss out on discovering and listening to it while waiting for the exciting meetings that will take place on the CAN 2023 grounds.