Angelique Kidjo has etched her name into history, becoming the first Black African artist to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This monumental achievement represents a broader cultural shift, spotlighting the influence and excellence of African music and artistry on a global stage.
The honor is part of the Walk of Fame’s Class of 2026, which includes a diverse list of 35 global icons. For Kidjo, the recognition is a crowning moment in a career defined by boundary-breaking music, passionate activism, and unwavering dedication to her African roots.
Born in 1960 in Ouidah, Benin, Kidjo’s artistic journey began in childhood. Raised in a creative family—her father was a musician and her mother a choreographer and theatre director—she was exposed early to an eclectic mix of musical genres. From traditional Beninese rhythms to Afropop, jazz, funk, and soul, her sound was shaped by both African heritage and international influences. Singing in Fon, Yoruba, French, and English, her work has consistently transcended borders and languages.
After rising to prominence in West Africa during the 1980s, she relocated to Paris to pursue formal musical training. There, she launched an international career that would eventually span over four decades. Her early albums such as Logozo (1991), Ayé (1994), and Fifa (1996) garnered widespread acclaim, establishing her as a global ambassador of African music.
Known for her electrifying live performances and rich, multicultural sound, Kidjo has collaborated with a broad range of renowned musicians across genres and continents. Her work with legends like Carlos Santana, Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, and Philip Glass exemplifies her ability to seamlessly merge traditions and styles. These partnerships have further elevated African rhythms to mainstream audiences worldwide.
Beyond her musical achievements, Kidjo has also distinguished herself as a fierce advocate for social change. A longtime champion of education for girls, women’s rights, and sustainable development in Africa, she has used her platform to raise awareness and drive impact. Her efforts in humanitarian work have included serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, amplifying her voice in global conversations around equity and justice.
Kidjo’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She is a multi-time Grammy Award winner, including four wins for Best World Music Album, highlighting her consistency and excellence. Her 2019 album Celia, a vibrant tribute to the late salsa legend Celia Cruz, demonstrated her versatility and her commitment to preserving musical legacies.
The unveiling of her star on the Walk of Fame is more than a personal triumph; it’s a cultural milestone. It acknowledges not only her artistic prowess but also the rising stature of African artists on the world stage. Her legacy will now be immortalized among the legends of entertainment, a source of inspiration for generations of African creatives to come.
Angelique Kidjo’s story is one of fearless creativity, cultural pride, and global impact. Her star now shines on Hollywood Boulevard, a beacon of African excellence and a symbol of music’s power to unite the world.
