Angélique Kidjo, the Beninese-born singer and global music icon, has earned a spot among the 2026 inductees to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking her as the first Black African performer to achieve this honour.
On July 3, a press conference revealed that Kidjo, 64, joined the latest class of the Walk of Fame. The acclaimed artist, who has built a four-decade career blending West African traditions with global music genres, joins a group of 35 honourees that includes singer Miley Cyrus, actor Timothée Chalamet, actress Demi Moore, and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal.
Kidjo, introduced as “Africa’s premier diva,” has released 16 studio albums and collaborated with artists like Burna Boy, Alicia Keys, Philip Glass, and Sting.
Trailblazer in African Music
Born in Ouidah, Benin, Kidjo left her home country for Paris in 1983 amid political unrest under a communist regime.
“From the moment the communist regime arrived in Benin, I became aware that the freedom we enjoy can be snatched away in a second,” she told the BBC in 2023.
Initially working as a backing singer in France, Kidjo launched her solo career with the 1990 album Parakou. Over the years, her music has traversed continents, genres, and languages, earning her five Grammy Awards and recognition as one of Africa’s most influential cultural ambassadors.
Cultural and Humanitarian Impact
In addition to her musical accomplishments, Kidjo is known for her advocacy work. She serves as a goodwill ambassador for both UNICEF and Oxfam and founded the Batonga Foundation, which supports secondary education and leadership opportunities for girls in sub-Saharan Africa.
“My nickname was ‘when, why, how?’” she shared in a recent interview. “I want to understand things, to understand my place in this world.”
Joining the Ranks of African Icons
With her upcoming star, Kidjo joins Charlize Theron—inducted in 2005—as one of only two African-born performers honoured on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Theron, however, is a white South African actress, making Kidjo’s recognition a first for Black African talent in the Walk’s more than 60-year history.
They have, however, not yet confirmed the exact date for Kidjo’s star unveiling. Inductees have two years to schedule their ceremonies following selection.
About Angélique Kidjo
Angélique Kidjo is a Beninese singer, songwriter, and activist renowned for her vibrant fusion of West African music with elements of funk, jazz, R&B, and Latin influences. She has received widespread acclaim for her powerful voice, cultural advocacy, and global collaborations. Her 2021 album Mother Nature earned her a fifth Grammy Award. With it, she further showcased her commitment to climate action and youth empowerment across Africa.
Kidjo’s work continues to inspire new generations of artists and advocates, solidifying her legacy as one of the most impactful African musicians in history.
