Angélique Kidjo becomes first African female singer on Hollywood Walk of Fame

Angélique Kidjo became the first African female singer to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday, marking a historic milestone for African artists on one of the entertainment industry's most recognized honors.

The Franco-Beninese artist, 66, unveiled her star at a ceremony on the Los Angeles boulevard, surrounded by major figures from film and music. Actor Willem Dafoe attended the event, as did Harvey Mason Jr., president of the Recording Academy and head of the Grammy Awards.

Mason described Kidjo as a "rare artist," noting that her example has strengthened the global music community. "Your work continues to remind us that music is more than entertainment: it's a link," he said. Dafoe praised her "incredible" stage energy and highlighted her humanitarian work through the Batonga Foundation, which supports the empowerment of girls and young women in Africa.

Kidjo has built a career spanning more than 40 years and 18 albums. A five-time Grammy winner, she has worked across genres, from reinterpreting classical compositions like Ravel's Boléro to collaborating with contemporary artists including Nigerian afrobeat heavyweights Davido and Burna Boy. She is a regular presence at international forums, including the World Economic Forum in Davos, where she advocates for her foundation's work.

When her Walk of Fame honour was announced in summer 2025, Kidjo said the recognition filled her with joy. "I am the first African female singer to have a star on the Walk of Fame of Hollywood, but I am convinced that I will not be the last. Many others will follow and that fills my heart with joy," she said then.