Home Music Angélique Kidjo Becomes First Black African Artist to Receive a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
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Angélique Kidjo Becomes First Black African Artist to Receive a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

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Los Angeles, USA – Grammy-winning Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo has made history as the first Black African performer to be selected for a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Announced as part of the Walk of Fame’s Class of 2026, the five-time Grammy Award winner joins 34 other global icons, including Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Shaquille O’Neal in being honored for their outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry.

Hailed as Africa’s “premier diva,” the 64-year-old music legend has enjoyed a stellar career spanning more than four decades. With 16 albums to her name, Kidjo is internationally celebrated for her powerful voice and her unique ability to blend traditional West African rhythms with genres like funk, jazz, Latin, and R&B. She has collaborated with an impressive roster of global artists, including Burna Boy, Alicia Keys, Sting, Philip Glass, and Carlos Santana, further cementing her position as a cultural bridge between Africa and the world.

Born in Cotonou, Benin, Kidjo left her home country in 1983 during a period of political oppression under the then-communist regime, eventually settling in Paris where she launched her professional music career. Her breakout solo album Parakou was released in 1990, setting the stage for decades of international acclaim. She has since become one of Africa’s most recognized and respected voices not only in music, but also as a humanitarian.

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Angélique Kidjo is also a passionate advocate for social change. She serves as a UNICEF and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and founded the Batonga Foundation, which supports the education and empowerment of adolescent girls in Africa. Known for her curiosity and sense of purpose, Kidjo once described herself as a child driven by questions nicknamed “when, why, how?” a mindset that has fueled her mission to understand her place in the world and uplift others.

Kidjo will join Charlize Theron the only other African-born recipient to date on the Walk of Fame, though Theron, a white South African actress, received her star in 2005. The official unveiling date for Kidjo’s star has not yet been announced, but recipients typically have two years to schedule their induction ceremonies.

This milestone not only honors Kidjo’s extraordinary musical legacy but also marks a historic moment for African representation in global pop culture, shining a spotlight on the continent’s rich artistic contributions and ongoing influence worldwide.

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