Music News Correspondent
By Chris Akpoborie
Beninese-French music legend Angélique Kidjo has made history by becoming the first African artist to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing her legacy not only as a global music powerhouse but also as a trailblazer for African culture on the world stage.
The announcement, made by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, places Kidjo among the 2026 class of honorees alongside global icons like Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Shaquille O’Neal, and Lea Salonga. Her star, which will be placed in the “Recording” category, recognizes more than four decades of musical excellence and cultural impact.
Kidjo, a five-time Grammy Award winner, is widely celebrated for her fusion of Afrobeat, funk, jazz, Latin, and traditional West African rhythms. With albums like Logozo, Eve, Celia, and Mother Nature, she has pushed boundaries and built bridges between cultures through her multilingual performances in French, Yoruba, Fon, and English. Her collaborations with global stars such as Alicia Keys, Burna Boy, Sting, and Carlos Santana have only amplified her influence.
Speaking on the recognition, Kidjo expressed deep emotion and pride:
“This honor goes beyond me. It represents the countless African artists whose voices and stories have shaped music and humanity for generations. To see an African name inscribed on this iconic boulevard is to say to every little girl in Cotonou, Lagos, Nairobi, and Johannesburg—your dreams are valid.”
Beyond music, Kidjo is also a passionate humanitarian and activist. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founder of the Batonga Foundation, she has championed girls’ education and women’s empowerment across the African continent. Her advocacy work, combined with her artistry, has made her a respected global voice for equity, human rights, and cultural pride.
Her upcoming star ceremony, to be held in Los Angeles, will celebrate not just her musical achievements, but also her role in uplifting African identity in the global arts scene. It marks a powerful step toward broader representation and appreciation of African talent in Hollywood and beyond.
As fans, fellow artists, and admirers across the globe celebrate this milestone, Angélique Kidjo’s historic honor on the Hollywood Walk of Fame stands as a resounding testament to her brilliance, resilience, and her unwavering commitment to sharing Africa’s soul with the world.
