Musical legend Angélique Kidjo has made history by becoming the first Black African performer to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The announcement was made on Wednesday, revealing that Kidjo will be honored among 35 inductees in the class of 2026. The renowned artist, who hails from Benin and has earned five Grammy awards, has been celebrated for her exceptional contributions to music over a career spanning over four decades.
Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First Black African Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First Black African Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Renowned singer Angélique Kidjo receives a historic honor on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as the first Black African performer.
This remarkable recognition comes as Kidjo, often referred to as Africa's "premier diva," continues to inspire global audiences with her unique ability to blend West African music with genres such as funk, jazz, and R&B. Her collaborations with artists like Burna Boy, Sting, and Alicia Keys have helped her transcend cultural barriers, further solidifying her status in the music industry.
Alongside Kidjo, stars like Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Shaquille O'Neal are set to receive their own stars on the iconic Los Angeles boulevard, which boasts more than 2,700 stars. While the date of Kidjo's star unveiling remains unconfirmed, recipients generally have two years to schedule their induction ceremonies.
Kidjo fled her home country of Benin in 1983 due to political oppression, which fueled her drive for understanding and expression through music. She initially worked as a backing singer in France before launching her solo career with the album "Parakou" in 1990. Beyond her musical success, Kidjo is also a Unicef and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and founded her charity, Batonga, to support the education of young girls in Africa.
This latest achievement not only honors Kidjo's artistic legacy but also paves the way for more recognition of African talent on the global stage, standing alongside Charlize Theron, who received her star in 2005. The news of Kidjo's star adds a significant chapter in the narrative of African musicians making their mark in Hollywood and beyond.
Alongside Kidjo, stars like Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Shaquille O'Neal are set to receive their own stars on the iconic Los Angeles boulevard, which boasts more than 2,700 stars. While the date of Kidjo's star unveiling remains unconfirmed, recipients generally have two years to schedule their induction ceremonies.
Kidjo fled her home country of Benin in 1983 due to political oppression, which fueled her drive for understanding and expression through music. She initially worked as a backing singer in France before launching her solo career with the album "Parakou" in 1990. Beyond her musical success, Kidjo is also a Unicef and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and founded her charity, Batonga, to support the education of young girls in Africa.
This latest achievement not only honors Kidjo's artistic legacy but also paves the way for more recognition of African talent on the global stage, standing alongside Charlize Theron, who received her star in 2005. The news of Kidjo's star adds a significant chapter in the narrative of African musicians making their mark in Hollywood and beyond.
