Congolese pop icon Fally Ipupa, celebrated as the Prince of Rumba, is set to release his highly anticipated album ‘XX’ on April 17, under Warner Music France. This release not only marks a pivotal moment in his career but also commemorates two decades of creativity, excellence, and profound influence within the African music scene.
The album is highlighted by the priority track ‘Jam,’ which features afrobeats star Wizkid, as well as the previously released single ‘Cinéma.’ ‘XX’ boasts an impressive roster of collaborators, showcasing a blend of diverse musical styles while reflecting Fally’s evolution as an artist. Collaborators include GRAMMY Award-winning artist Angélique Kidjo, rising talent Joé Dwèt Filé from Haiti, amapiano innovator DJ Maphorisa from South Africa, the São Toméan duo Calema, and French rap artist KeBlack. Notably, Fally has also worked with esteemed producers like Trésor Riziki, Dany Synthé, and Seysey to craft a polished musical narrative through this expansive 19-track album.

The artistic foundation of ‘XX’ intertwines global pop elements reminiscent of Fally’s successful Tokoos era with the deeply rooted Congolese rumba that defines his music. This new offering is designed to enrich his legacy, integrating traditional sounds with contemporary influences like R&B and afrobeats. Through ‘XX,’ Fally Ipupa aims not just to celebrate his past achievements but to explore new musical horizons, reinforcing his position as a leading figure in global music.
Beyond his contributions to music, Fally Ipupa has also made significant strides as an ambassador for change, partnering with organizations such as UNESCO, the United Nations, and UNICEF. With over three billion global streams and an impressive following of 30 million across social media, he is not only a beloved artist but also a pivotal cultural force. Fally’s recent sold-out shows, including his record-breaking performance at Paris La Défense Arena, further highlight his status as a monumental figure in the industry.
As ‘XX’ approaches its release, Fally Ipupa plans an array of concerts including two major performances at Stade de France to celebrate his longstanding career. Following this, an international tour across the UK, Europe, and North America is in the pipeline, promising to showcase African music on a global scale. With ‘XX,’ Fally Ipupa continues to define his legacy, meld innovation with tradition, and push the bounds of contemporary sounds while honoring his cultural roots.
