Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has made history as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The five-time Grammy Award winner was honoured in recognition of her outstanding contribution to music and global culture, with her star unveiled at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard, opposite the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.
Kidjo’s star is the 2,854th on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is located in the Recording category.
For more than four decades, the celebrated singer and songwriter has taken African music to audiences across the globe, blending her Beninese heritage with Afropop, jazz, funk, reggae, soul and other musical influences.
She has released 18 albums and collaborated with leading international artistes, including Alicia Keys, Bono, Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, John Legend and Pharrell Williams.
With 16 Grammy nominations and five wins, Kidjo has established herself as one of Africa’s most influential and internationally recognised musicians.
Beyond music, she is also widely known for her advocacy for girls’ education, children’s rights and opportunities for young African women, using her global platform to inspire and create opportunities for the next generation.
Speaking on the historic recognition, Kidjo said: “I may be the first African artist to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but I am convinced that I will not be the last.”
Her milestone represents more than a personal achievement, but also a significant moment for African music and women across the continent.
Kidjo’s journey from Benin to one of the world’s most celebrated entertainment landmarks underscores the growing global influence of African culture and the power of African artistes to command space on the international stage.
The historic honour further cements her legacy as a trailblazer who has spent decades using music, culture and advocacy to amplify African voices around the world.
