Wondering what BIM stands for? The full name is Bénin International Musical, and it carries with it the electrified warm winds of Cotonou! Notable performances at Festival International Nuits d’Afrique in 2019 and 2025, BIM contains a story of the African continent that sheds light on Vodoun culture beyond popular misconceptions. Make way for its positive attitude toward the planet and humanity. A must-add to your summer calendar.

Sometimes, it only takes a twist of fate for music with global appeal to be revealed to the rest of the world. This is what happened to BIM, who has been promoted by Radio France, the European Broadcasting Union, TV5 Monde and Rolling Stone magazine. Jeune Afrique is raving about them, describing the supergrouFbp’s music as “explosive and wild Vodoun rock!”
Benin International Musical (BIM) is bursting with creativity. Since the release of their debut album in 2019, their Dahomey ancestors have been smiling down on them. A powerful current binds every electron of this band, which has gained recognition across three continents: Africa, Europe and North America. Its seven musician-vocalists offer a blend of traditional, urban and electrified melodies, without sacrificing the polyrhythmic power of the percussion or the fervour of the polyphonic vocals. At times it’s their pared down folk sound that brings their fans together, as with their tender “Teoun Teoun,” but then things pick up as they break out with “ABOBO” (The Victory Cry), which rocks with bold rap.

As an ambassador for Benin’s musical diversity, singer Jimmy Belah spreads the message of “Positive Vodoun,” the group’s latest track released in 2026, and set to an incredibly energizing and increasingly bold beat, introducing a whole new dimension to exploring Vodoun practices. May the mystical forces long bless the bond of these young Beninese artists, so that we may forever enjoy and heal our spirits with their invigorating musical offerings.

08/07/2026