Five-time Grammy-winning singer Angelique Kidjo has reached a historic milestone with her Hollywood Walk of Fame honour. The Beninese music icon became the first Black African to receive a star on the famous Hollywood landmark.
Kidjo received the honour during a star-studded ceremony in California on Tuesday. Film stars, music executives and admirers gathered as she unveiled the star on the busy Hollywood thoroughfare.
The emotional celebration recognised more than four decades of her international music career.
“We Africans don’t know what we’ve given to the world,” the 66-year-old said.
“Without us, there’s no music possible on this planet.”
After thanking her family and team, Kidjo broke into song during the celebration. The audience watched the performance with admiration.
Angelique Kidjo’s Four-Decade Music Career
Born in Benin, Kidjo has built an international career spanning more than 40 years.
She has released 18 albums and won five Grammy Awards during her remarkable career.
Her influence extends beyond her music and performances. Time magazine has named her among the world’s 100 most influential people.
The BBC also recognised her among Africa’s 50 most iconic figures.
Meanwhile, The Guardian included her among the world’s 100 most inspiring people.
These honours reflect Kidjo’s lasting influence across the international music industry.
Recording Academy Praises Angelique Kidjo
Harvey Mason Jr. of the Recording Academy praised Kidjo’s contribution to global music.
He described her as a “rare artist” and highlighted the impact of her work.
“Your example has elevated our global music community, and your work continues to remind us that music is more than entertainment; it’s connection,” he said.
Mason also described the Hollywood Walk of Fame star as a lasting symbol of her achievements.
“This star is a permanent symbol; it’s not going anywhere, and it’s a symbol of your achievements. But your legacy, it lives in the people that you’ve touched, that you’ve inspired, the barriers that you’ve broken, the connections you’ve created all around the world.”
His remarks highlighted the broader impact of Kidjo’s career.
Her influence has reached audiences and artists far beyond her music.
Willem Dafoe Highlights Kidjo’s Humanitarian Work
Actor Willem Dafoe also celebrated Kidjo’s achievements during the ceremony.
The “Platoon” star recalled watching her perform live for the first time.
“The first time I saw Angelique perform live, I thought her music, her dancing, her commitment were incredible,” the actor said.
“She is, without a doubt, the hardest-working woman in show business.”
Dafoe also praised Kidjo’s humanitarian efforts through the Batonga Foundation.
The organisation works to empower girls and young women across Africa.
“This is not a token celebrity involvement; it is an extension of what she does with her music. She stirs us, lifts us up, and reminds us that we’re all connected, and that love and understanding is the way.”
His comments underlined how Kidjo has used her global platform beyond entertainment.
A Landmark Honour for African Music
Kidjo’s Hollywood Walk of Fame star adds another major achievement to her extraordinary career.
The honour also reflects the growing international recognition of African musicians and their cultural influence.
Throughout her career, Kidjo has combined music with advocacy and humanitarian work. Her latest achievement therefore represents more than another award. It celebrates decades of music, cultural influence and connections with audiences around the world.
The star will remain a permanent symbol of Kidjo’s achievements. However, her lasting legacy will also live through the people she has inspired and the barriers she has helped break.
