Congolese music superstar Fally Ipupa, widely celebrated as the "Prince of Rumba," has released his highly anticipated new album, XX, a landmark project commemorating two decades of artistic excellence, creativity, and global influence. The album signals a defining new chapter in one of African music's most enduring and internationally respected careers.
Standout Collaboration with Wizkid
Led by the standout track Jam featuring Afrobeats icon and Grammy award winner Wizkid, alongside the previously released single Cinéma, the album brings together an impressive roster of international collaborators. These include Grammy award-winning music legend Angélique Kidjo, Haitian rising star Joé Dwèt Filé, South African amapiano pioneer DJ Maphorisa, São Toméan pop duo Calema, and French rap sensation KeBlack.
Production and Sound
The project is further strengthened by renowned producers such as Trésor Riziki, Dany Synthé, and Seysey, who collectively shape the album's rich and expansive sound across its 20 tracks. Released on April 17 through Warner Music France, XX arrives on the heels of Ipupa's Gold-certified album Formule 7. The new project reflects an artist at a creative crossroads, blending the global pop dynamism that defined his Tokoos era with the deeper, traditional instrumentation that has long anchored his musical identity.
Rooted in Congolese Rumba
Though contemporary in sound, the album remains firmly rooted in Congolese rumba, a genre Ipupa continues to modernise with elements of pop, R&B, and Afrobeats. As with all his previous work, Congolese rumba sits at the heart of the musical language on this album. XX is primed to extend that legacy with confidence.
Global Impact and Tour
With more than three billion global streams, over 2.5 billion YouTube views, and a combined social media following exceeding 30 million, Fally Ipupa has built a truly global brand while staying connected to his Congolese heritage. The four-time BET Award nominee for Best International Act has delivered historic performances on some of Europe's biggest stages, including sold-out shows at Paris La Défense Arena, OVO Arena Wembley, ING Arena Brussels, and Uber Eats Music Hall Berlin, as well as major stadiums across Africa. A major international tour across the United Kingdom, Europe, and North America is also planned later in the year.
