Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has made history by becoming the first African musician and first Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
According to The Punch, the five-time Grammy winner was selected for the prestigious honour. This recognition was for a music career spanning more than four decades. Furthermore, it was due to her influence on music and culture across the world.
The 66-year-old received the 2,854th star on the famous Hollywood boulevard on Tuesday in the Recording category.
Hollywood honours Kidjo’s global influence
Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez described Kidjo as an artist whose work and influence have reached audiences across generations and continents.
“Angélique Kidjo’s extraordinary artistry and global influence have inspired audiences across generations and continents,” Martinez said.
She added that the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce was proud to recognise Kidjo as the first African artist to receive a star on the Walk of Fame.
“We are proud to honour her as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognising her remarkable contributions to music and culture around the world,” she said.
The ceremony took place at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard, across from the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.
Dafoe, Mason join historic ceremony
Kidjo was joined at the ceremony by four-time Academy Award-nominated actor Willem Dafoe. In addition, Recording Academy Chief Executive Officer Harvey Mason Jr. attended as well.
The landmark recognition comes more than a year after Kidjo was announced as a member of the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026.
Reacting when the honour was first announced, Kidjo expressed hope. She hoped her recognition would open the way for more African musicians to receive similar honours.
“I may be the first African female singer to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but I am convinced that I will not be the last,” she said.
“Many others will follow, and that fills my heart with joy.”
Four decades of global music
Born in Benin, Kidjo has built one of the most successful international careers by an African musician. She has blended West African sounds with genres including jazz, funk, R&B and gospel.
Her career has earned her five Grammy Awards and collaborations with several international and African stars.
Kidjo has also used her international profile to advocate for women and children. In addition, she has worked as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and at the Batonga Foundation.
Her latest album, “HOPE!!”, features several prominent artistes, including Pharrell Williams, Quavo, Ayra Starr, Davido, Nile Rodgers and Charlie Wilson.
The Hollywood recognition adds another milestone to Kidjo’s decades-long career. It also places her name permanently among thousands of entertainment figures honoured on the famous Los Angeles landmark.
