Angélique Kidjo Becomes First African Musician Honoured With Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has become the first African musician and first Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The five-time Grammy Award winner was honoured on Tuesday, 18 August, at a ceremony attended by actor Willem Dafoe, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., Beninese-born actor Djimon Hounsou and Nigerian musician Adekunle Gold. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce also declared 18 August Angélique Kidjo Day in Hollywood.

During her speech, the 64-year-old musician reflected on Africa’s contribution to global music and culture, saying Africans should recognise the impact they have had on the world. Kidjo, who has enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades, also broke into song before dancing beside her newly unveiled star. The ceremony celebrated not only her achievements as a musician but also her work promoting African culture and empowering women and young people.

Kidjo is one of Africa’s most internationally celebrated musicians, with five Grammy Awards among her many honours. She has also received the Polar Music Prize, performed at the opening ceremony of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and collaborated with artists including Alicia Keys, Burna Boy, Yo-Yo Ma, Bono and Peter Gabriel. Her latest album, Hope!!, features a new generation of African and international stars, including Davido, Ayra Starr, Pharrell Williams, Quavo and Charlie Wilson.

Beyond music, Kidjo has built a significant humanitarian legacy through her Batonga Foundation, which supports girls and young women in Africa. Her Hollywood honour therefore represents more than recognition for a successful music career; it also marks a wider acknowledgement of African creativity and influence on the global stage. The star places Kidjo among the celebrated names on Hollywood Boulevard while marking a historic milestone for African music.