Beninese music icon Angelique Kidjo has made history as the first Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The five-time Grammy Award winner was honoured on Tuesday, August 18, at a ceremony in Los Angeles, where leading figures from the global entertainment industry celebrated her.
Kidjo, 66, dedicated the milestone to her family, team and Africa, stressing the continent’s profound influence on music worldwide.
With a career spanning more than four decades, 18 albums and numerous international honours, Kidjo has established herself as one of Africa’s most influential musical ambassadors.
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. described her as a “rare artiste,” praising her ability to use music to build connections across cultures.
Actor Willem Dafoe also paid tribute to Kidjo’s presence and humanitarian work through her Batonga Foundation, which supports the education and empowerment of girls and young women in Africa.
For Angelique Kidjo, the Hollywood honour adds another landmark to a career defined not only by musical excellence but also by advocacy and a commitment to Africa’s next generation.
