Angélique Kidjo Makes History With Hollywood Star

Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has reached another major milestone in her career after being honoured with a star on the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Kidjo received her star on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in Los Angeles, United States, marking a major moment not just for the singer but for African music as a whole.

The four-time Grammy Award winner was honoured in the Recording category as part of the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026. Her recognition places her among some of the biggest names in entertainment who have received the prestigious honour.

What makes the achievement even more special is that Kidjo is the first musician from Africa to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The 64-year-old singer, who was born in Cotonou, Benin, has spent decades building an international career while bringing African sounds and stories to audiences around the world.

From her early days in Benin to performing on some of the biggest stages globally, Kidjo has become one of Africa’s most respected musical figures.

Her music has also crossed borders and genres, with the singer known for blending West African sounds with elements of pop, jazz and other international styles.

The Hollywood honour adds to a long list of achievements for Kidjo, who has won four Grammy Awards and worked with several internationally recognised artists during her career.

The ceremony was attended by guests and entertainment personalities, with Hollywood actor Willem Dafoe among those who spoke at the event.

Kidjo’s Hollywood Walk of Fame star is reportedly the 2,854th star on the famous boulevard, adding her name to a list that includes some of the world’s most celebrated entertainers.

For many African music lovers, the moment represents more than just another award. It is a sign of how far African music and its biggest stars have travelled on the global stage.

Kidjo has consistently used her platform to celebrate African culture while connecting it with audiences outside the continent.

With her latest honour, the Beninese singer has once again shown why she remains one of Africa’s most influential musical exports.

Her Hollywood Walk of Fame star is now another permanent reminder of a career that has taken African music to audiences across the world.