Angélique Kidjo makes history, becomes first African musician to receive Hollywood Walk of Fame star

Angelique Kidjo becomes first African musician to get Hollywood star

Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has made history as the first African musician to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, adding one of the entertainment industry's most recognisable honours to her remarkable career.

The five-time Grammy Award winner was honoured in the Recording category, in recognition of her contribution to music and her decades-long work bringing African culture, sounds and stories to audiences around the world.

Angelique Kidjo becomes first African musician to get Hollywood star

The landmark honour comes after more than four decades in music for Kidjo, who has released 18 albums and established herself as one of Africa's most influential and internationally celebrated artists.

‘Extraordinary artistry and global influence’

Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez praised Kidjo's impact on music and culture across generations.

“Angélique Kidjo’s extraordinary artistry and global influence have inspired audiences across generations and continents,” Martinez said.

She added: “We are proud to honour her as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognising her remarkable contributions to music and culture around the world.”

A milestone beyond music

Kidjo's recognition represents more than a personal career achievement, placing an African musical voice among the celebrated names permanently honoured along Hollywood Boulevard.

Over the years, the Beninese singer has built an international reputation by blending West African musical traditions with global sounds, while using her platform to promote African culture and social causes.

Her latest recognition further cements a career that has already earned her five Grammy Awards, numerous international honours and a place among the most prominent African musicians on the global stage.

For Kidjo, the Hollywood star becomes another historic chapter in a career that has consistently taken African music beyond the continent and into the heart of global popular culture.