Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First African Musician to Receive Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Five-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo has made history, becoming the first African musician and first Black African artist to receive a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The legendary Beninese singer has reached another remarkable milestone in a career that has spanned more than four decades, earning global recognition for her powerful voice, African-inspired sound and influence on the international music scene.

Kidjo was honoured with the 2,854th star in the Recording category on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, during a ceremony on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles. The historic ceremony featured Willem Dafoe and Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, as guest speakers.

Kidjo’s recognition is bigger than another award for an already decorated musician. She is now the first African musician and first Black African to have her name permanently placed on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

While South African actress Charlize Theron previously became the second African-born entertainer to receive a Hollywood star in 2005, Kidjo’s honour marks a first for an African musician. Over the course of her illustrious career, Kidjo has used music to bring African sounds and culture to audiences around the world.

The five-time Grammy winner has collaborated with some of the biggest names in global music, including Davido, Burna Boy, Alicia Keys, Sting and Philip Glass.

Perhaps one of the most powerful aspects of Kidjo’s historic achievement is the message she attached to it. Reacting to the honour, the singer expressed hope that her achievement would open the door for more African artistes to receive similar global recognition.

“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.” And that may be the most important part of this milestone.

For decades, African musicians have taken their sounds beyond the continent and transformed the global music landscape. From Afrobeats to highlife, Amapiano and other African sounds, the continent’s influence on international music continues to grow. Now, Kidjo’s name sits permanently among some of the world’s most celebrated entertainers.

Beyond her music career, Kidjo has also built a reputation as an advocate for children’s rights, education and social development in Africa. Her influence has earned her recognition far beyond the music industry, including being named among TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2021.

From Benin to the world’s biggest stages, Angélique Kidjo’s journey has been one of talent, resilience and cultural representation. And now, Hollywood has officially cemented her legacy.