Angélique Kidjo Makes History on Hollywood Walk of Fame

Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has become the first African musician and the first Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The five-time Grammy winner was awarded the 2,854th star in recognition of her extraordinary artistry and global cultural influence. The ceremony featured Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., who praised Kidjo’s artistic achievements and activism. For Kidjo, the honor represents more than a personal milestone: she described it as recognition of Africa’s immense contribution to global music and culture. Over a career spanning more than four decades, she has connected musical traditions from Benin with funk, jazz and pop, influencing generations of artists worldwide. Kidjo said she hoped the star would encourage young Africans, particularly women, to embrace their identities, pursue their ambitions and believe in what is possible.