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Released Jul 24, 2020
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Quick Facts
Born
1984
1984
From
Benin
Benin
Journey
Sessimè, born Bidossessi Christelle Guédou in Covè, Benin, is a Beninese singer, songwriter, pianist, percussionist, and performer celebrated for her fusion of Afro-pop, Afro-rock, zouk, Afrobeat, and traditional Beninese music. Raised in a culturally rich environment, she developed a passion for music and dance at an early age, drawing inspiration from both her family heritage and international icons such as Michael Jackson and Angélique Kidjo. A significant influence on her artistic identity comes from the traditional akodémin rhythms of Zâ-Kpota, popularized by her grandfather, Robert Guédou Gangbè, whose musical legacy continues to shape her sound.
Her stage name, Sessimè, is derived from her indigenous name Bidossèssi, a Fon name commonly interpreted as “everything is in God's hands” or “everything depends on destiny,” reflecting themes of faith, resilience, and purpose that frequently appear in her work. Performing in Fon, Yoruba, French, and English, she has built a distinctive style that combines traditional percussion, indigenous melodies, and contemporary African production.
Sessimè first gained national attention after winning the Coca-Cola Star Promo competition in 2007, a breakthrough that launched her professional career. The same year, she released her debut album, "Pourquoi," before achieving wider acclaim with "Wazakoua" in 2011. Meaning “Save the Children,” "Wazakoua" addressed social issues affecting vulnerable children and became a landmark release in Beninese music, earning multiple distinctions, including the Benin Golden Awards, SICA Trophies, Benin Top 10 Awards, and Hokan Trophies. The project also propelled her onto major stages across Africa and Europe.
Over the years, Sessimè has expanded her catalogue with notable songs such as "My Praise," "Yayayé" (featuring Almok), "Fana Fana" (featuring Rico Amaj), "Folow Me" (featuring Clark Donovan), "Lemiwé" (featuring Blaaz), "Je ne vois que toi" (featuring Mr Leo), "Guigo," "Accro," "Tatouage," "Daaga," "Officializé," "Tololi," and "Amour." Her collaborations with artists from across the continent highlight her versatility and commitment to bridging traditional and contemporary African music.
Her success has been recognized through numerous accolades, most notably the 2012 Kora Award for Best Female Hope of the African Continent, as well as recognition at the Prix Découvertes RFI-France 24, the Benin Top 10 Awards, Benin Golden Awards, and SICA Festival distinctions. In 2019, she was named Best Artist of the Year at the Benin Top 10 Awards, further cementing her status as one of Benin's leading musical figures.
Beyond recording, Sessimè has performed extensively at major events and festivals, including Africa-Rythmes, Waga Hip-Hop, Nuits Atypiques de Koudougou, Africa Fête, and numerous concerts organized by the Alliance Française and French cultural institutes throughout West Africa. She is also known for her advocacy work supporting women's empowerment, children's welfare, education, and community development initiatives in Benin. Through her music and public engagements, she continues to serve as a cultural ambassador for Beninese music, championing authenticity, empowerment, and the preservation of African heritage while embracing modern Afro-fusion sounds.