Angelique Kidjo to Become the First Black African Artist to Receive a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Angelique Kidjo, a world-renowned music legend from Benin with a career spanning over four decades, is set to make history as the first black African woman to be honored with a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame. At 64 years old, she has been officially announced among 35 new inductees for 2026, in a list that now includes over 2,700 stars recognizing outstanding figures in arts and entertainment. This moment is particularly significant, as no other African performer, especially a black woman, has previously received such an accolade, highlighting the growing recognition and appreciation of African culture and music worldwide. Throughout her prolific career, Kidjo has released 16 studio albums, blending traditional West African rhythms with genres like funk, jazz, and R&B. Her work has earned her five Grammy Awards and collaborations with global stars such as Burna Boy, Philip Glass, Sting, and Alicia Keys. Her voice and music symbolize not only African cultural identity but also a broader movement advocating for equality and social justice. The award was bestowed upon her for her outstanding contributions to the music industry and her active involvement in charity work. Born in Benin, she emigrated to Paris in 1983 due to political pressure from her country’s then-communist government. She started her career as a backing vocalist in France, releasing her first solo album, 'Parakou,' in 1990. Besides her musical achievements, Kidjo is a UNICEF and Oxfam Goodwill Ambassador and founded Batonga, an organization dedicated to supporting girls’ education in Africa. The date for the formal unveiling of her star has not yet been set, but it is expected to take place within the next two years after official confirmation. This event not only recognizes her musical excellence but also emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity in the global entertainment industry. Meanwhile, Hollywood continues to discuss and debate policies, including plans to impose tariffs on foreign films, which have sparked controversy and affected major studios such as Disney and Netflix.