Angélique Kidjo Becomes First African Musician Honoured on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo makes history as the first African musician to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 19, 2026
2 min read
Angélique Kidjo, the acclaimed Beninese singer and five-time Grammy winner, has made history as the first African musician to be honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The milestone recognition was unveiled on August 18 at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard, celebrating her influential career spanning over 40 years.
Kidjo's star, the 2,854th on the famous boulevard, was presented in the Recording category during a ceremony attended by prominent figures from the music and entertainment industries, including actor Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr.
A Career of Impact and Inspiration
Since launching her career in Benin and later moving to Paris, Kidjo has released 19 albums and collaborated with global stars such as Alicia Keys, Burna Boy, and John Legend. Her work has earned her five Grammy Awards and the prestigious Polar Music Prize in 2023.
Beyond music, Kidjo is recognized for her humanitarian efforts, notably through her Batonga Foundation, which champions girls' education across Africa. Willem Dafoe commended her dedication, describing her as "the hardest-working woman in show business" and praising her activism and artistry.
A Message to Africa and the World
In her acceptance speech, Kidjo dedicated the honour to Africa, her family, and previous generations of artists. She emphasized the continent's vital contribution to global music, stating, "Without us, there’s no music possible on this planet." She encouraged young people to dream boldly and remain authentic, urging African women to develop their own unique identities rather than imitate others.
Reflecting on her journey from a young girl in Benin to an international icon, Kidjo said, "It’s not just my star, it’s our star," highlighting the collective significance of the achievement.
Continued Influence
Kidjo's latest album, Hope!!, features collaborations with Pharrell Williams, Quavo, and Ayra Starr, underscoring her ongoing relevance in the music scene. Recognized by TIME magazine as one of the 100 most influential people globally in 2021, Kidjo continues to inspire through her art and advocacy.
