This album is a tribute to the African female artist detailing the depth of musical heritage of Africa and the part that women have played in that. This is a "best Of" African female album, including the legends Miriam Makeba, Cesaria Evora, The Mahotella Queens and Margaret Singana, to the current stars such as Angelique Kidjo and Busi Mhlongo and the rising talents of Aster Aweke, Rokia Traore and Oumou Sangare. From South Africa to Mali, Ethiopia to Benin, Cape Verde to the Masai the album encompasses the wealth of African female talent.

All are unique in their own right. Some sing in their tribal languages, in English, in French, songs dealing with love, and relationships, songs dealing with history, with myth, with oppression and freedom -- and all the songs are sung in a variety of wonderful voices set to enticing rhythms. It's a fine introduction to some of the continent's best singers and most vibrant musical directions. The style of their music may vary, however what they all have in common is that they are supreme artists, the elite, The Empresses of Africa.