Beninese-French singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo has been honored as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, joining the Class of 2026. The announcement was made on July 2 during an event by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles.
A five-time Grammy Award winner, Kidjo has long been a trailblazer for African music, fusing genres like Afrobeat, funk, jazz, and Latin into a sound that resonates globally. Over her 40+ year career, her discography, including albums like Logozo, Celia, and Mother Nature, has earned her widespread recognition, including honors from TIME, the BBC, Forbes, and the World Economic Forum.
Kidjo’s impact extends beyond music; her humanitarian efforts as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founder of the Batonga Foundation have supported education and community development across sub‑Saharan Africa.
At the star announcement, Hollywood Walk of Fame selection committee chairman Peter Roth praised Kidjo, stating her contributions to global entertainment merited this high distinction.
In her statement, Kidjo expressed that her star “is not just mine. It belongs to Africa,” emphasizing the moment’s significance for her home continent.
This landmark honor places Kidjo alongside global icons like Miley Cyrus, Lydia Lovett, and Shaquille O’Neal—marking a powerful milestone for African representation in global arts.
What This Means
-
A first for Africa: Kidjo is the first Black African musician to be immortalized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
-
Amplifying African influence: This achievement solidifies Africa’s place in the global cultural landscape, proving that its creative voices are central, not peripheral.
-
Inspiration for generations: Kidjo’s star sends a powerful message to African artists everywhere—your story, your music, and your heritage matter on the world stage .
The official unveiling ceremony date has not yet been announced as honorees typically have two years to coordinate the event.
From her early beginnings in Benin to her evolving global influence, Angélique Kidjo’s journey has always been about breaking boundaries—musically and socially. This recognition isn’t just personal; it celebrates decades of cultural exchange, activism, and artistry.
As Kidjo herself said, “Music gave me the strength to talk about anything.” Hollywood has answered—and Africa has a new star on the world’s most iconic sidewalk.