Nana Benz du Togo

Nana Benz Du Togo is a vibrant feminist five-piece music collective from Lomé, internationally acclaimed for their innovative fusion of ancestral Vodun traditions with contemporary electronic music, soul, and Afrobeat. Renowned for their creative use of upcycled and handcrafted instruments, the group has established a distinctive identity that seamlessly blends cultural heritage, social consciousness, and musical experimentation.

Named in honour of the legendary Nana Benz women of Togo, the collective pays tribute to a generation of influential market traders who built thriving businesses through the African wax-print trade during the mid-20th century. Celebrated for their economic independence and entrepreneurial success—often symbolised by the Mercedes-Benz vehicles they drove—the original Nana Benz became icons of female empowerment. Drawing inspiration from their legacy, the band champions African feminism, self-determination, and the strength of women across the continent.

Often described as pioneers of “digital voodoo”, Nana Benz Du Togo craft a sound rooted in Vodun spirituality and the elemental forces of nature—earth, wind, fire, and water. Their music combines traditional West African rhythms and ceremonial influences with modern electronic production, creating an immersive sonic experience that is both deeply ancestral and strikingly contemporary. At the heart of the group are the captivating vocal performances of singer-priestesses Lady Apoc, Izea Ledu, and Parus Kekeli, whose rich harmonies intertwine with intricate polyrhythms, synthesisers, and percussive textures.

A defining feature of the band's artistry is their commitment to sustainability and DIY innovation. Their performances incorporate a range of homemade and repurposed instruments, including PVC pipe basses, recycled suitcases, and custom-built percussion crafted from discarded materials. This environmentally conscious approach not only shapes their unique sound but also reflects their broader philosophy of creativity, resourcefulness, and cultural resilience.

In 2023, Nana Benz Du Togo released their critically acclaimed debut album, AGO, developed in collaboration with Peter Solo of Vaudou Game. Featuring standout tracks such as J'ai Compris and Nature, the album bridges traditional African rhythms with the vibrant contemporary sounds of Lomé, showcasing the group's ability to honour the past while embracing the future.

Their electrifying stage presence and genre-defying performances have earned them international recognition, leading to appearances at prestigious festivals including the North Sea Jazz Festival, End of the Road Festival, and Africa Oyé. Through their music, Nana Benz Du Togo continue to celebrate African identity, female empowerment, and cultural innovation on stages around the world.