Alicios

Alicios Theluji is a Congolese-Swedish singer-songwriter and political scientist whose music transcends borders, blending Congolese rumba, Afro-pop, and East African rhythms. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), she fled the war-torn region as a child and grew up in Nairobi, Kenya, before settling in Sweden, where she earned a degree in Political Science from Uppsala University. Her multicultural journey deeply influences her artistry, infusing her lyrics with themes of love, migration, resilience, and identity.

Alicios first rose to fame in 2012 with her debut single, "Mpita Njia," featuring Ugandan star Juliana Kanyomozi. The track became a pan-East African hit, amassing over 10 million YouTube views and marking her as a breakthrough artist.In 2020, she fulfilled a long-held artistic vision by releasing her album ALFA, a masterful compilation of her previous hits alongside fresh collaborations. Working with luminaries like Lady Jaydee, Jose Chameleone, and Kidum, the album bridged the modern era of singles with the timeless prestige of full-length projects—a harmonious reconciliation of industry evolution and artistic legacy.

Her 2016 single "Anita", a socially conscious song filmed in Tanzania, showcased her ability to weave powerful storytelling with striking visuals, earning critical acclaim. Over the years, Alicios has built a diverse discography, including fan favorites like "Loved by You" (2015), "Kimia" (2021), and "Fundi" (2021). Her music seamlessly transitions between languages—Swahili, Lingala, English, French, and Swedish—making her a true pan-African voice. In 2025, she made a bold comeback with "Ligi Kali," an Afro-fusion anthem celebrating resilience, which quickly became a TikTok and social media sensation.

Beyond her recordings, Alicios is a captivating live performer, having graced stages at major events like Afrika Tage (Austria), Festival Amani (DRC), and Choma na Ngoma (Nairobi). Her ability to connect with audiences across continents highlights her universal appeal. Press outlets such as BBC, France 24, and Music In Africa have praised her as an "ambassadrice of Congolese music" and a "pan-African vocalist with powerful storytelling."