By John Owoo
(Lomé – Togo)
Togolese singer Senzaa, one of the artists who brought the curtain down on the 2026 edition of the Afropéennes Festival, delivered a spellbinding performance on Sunday, February 22, at the Marché Moderne de Cacavéli-Agoè, leaving music lovers enthralled by her commanding stage presence and vocal dexterity.
Stepping onto the stage with confidence and theatrical flair, Senzaa delivered a set that seamlessly blended contemporary beats with traditional African sounds. The result was a rich, textured soundscape that felt both modern and deeply rooted. Her music, layered with evocative rhythms and expressive melodies, captured the pulse of everyday African life — its struggles, resilience, and triumphs.
Backed by an energetic ensemble, the singer moved effortlessly between upbeat anthems and reflective ballads. Her lyrics, often laced with social commentary, explored themes of justice, love, and loss, striking a chord with a diverse audience. Each song unfolded as a narrative, inviting listeners to reflect while still dancing to infectious grooves. The performance balanced entertainment with substance.
Senzaa’s artistry lies not only in her vocal strength but also in her ability to connect. With dramatic pauses, spirited choreography, and intimate audience interactions, she transformed the open-air market into a shared musical sanctuary.
As applause echoed across the grounds, it became clear that she is quickly positioning herself as one of the most compelling voices on the African music scene, distinguished by a sound that is both unique and purposeful.
Guadeloupean-Malagasy star Ricky Bishop ignited the crowd with an electrifying blend of Bouyon music. Known for its high-energy tempo, percussive drive, and dance-inducing cadence, lypso rhythms came to life through Bishop’s animated delivery. Bouncy keyboard lines and subtle rap inflections kept the audience on its feet, transforming the festival grounds into a pulsating dance floor.
Togolese artist Massama Dogo and the Alagaa Beat Band also left a lasting impression with a bold fusion of Afrobeat and psychedelic rock. His set, marked by edgy guitar riffs and hypnotic rhythms, honored tradition while pushing sonic boundaries. Drawing on ritualistic beats and melodies associated with Vodun culture, Dogo delivered a performance as spiritually resonant as it was musically adventurous.
Together, the trio and French artist Papatef, who performed later, underscored the Afropéennes Festival’s commitment to celebrating diverse African and diasporic sounds, closing the event on a vibrant, memorable note.
Launched in June 2023 by Togo Créatif, with support from the European Union and the Institut Français du Togo, Les Afropéennes has quickly become a major cultural fixture in Lomé, Togo’s capital.
Partners include the European Union, Institut Français, Goethe-Institut, ASKY, Marché Moderne de Cacavéli-Agoè, cfao, Hit Radio, GNADOE, Fanga Music, Voltic, and Hôtel École Lébénè.
