July 04, (THEWILL) — Music legend, Angélique Kidjo, has made history as the first African artist to earn a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Beninese singer, a five-time Grammy winner, was among 35 names announced for the Walk of Fame’s Class of 2026.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honoured the 64-year-old artist on Wednesday, during their announcement ceremony at Ovation Hollywood, revealing this year’s selection of entertainment industry stars.
Kidjo, renowned for her powerful voice and unique musical style, will receive her star in the Recordings category alongside global artistes like Miley Cyrus and The Clark Sisters. The honour recognises her decades of significant musical contributions and her global representation of African sound and culture.
Other notable honorees include singer, Miley Cyrus, actor Timothée Chalamet, actress Demi Moore, and former basketball player, Shaquille O’Neal.
With a career spanning over four decades and 16 albums, Kidjo first gained prominence as a backup singer in France before launching her solo career in 1990 with the album, Parakou. Beyond music, she serves as a UNICEF and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and founded the Batonga Foundation, which supports girls’ education in Africa.
Kidjo joins South African actress, Charlize Theron, as one of the few African acts on the Walk of Fame, which features over 2,700 stars. Theron received her star in 2005.
The date for Kidjo’s star unveiling has yet to be announced. Honourees typically have two years to schedule their induction ceremonies.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
