The illustrious Angélique Kidjo has made history. The globally celebrated musical icon from the West African nation of Benin has been selected for a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame, making her the first Black African performer to achieve this distinguished honour.
The news, unveiled during a press conference on Wednesday that revealed the Walk of Fame's Class of 2026 list, sent waves of excitement through the entertainment world. The 64-year-old five-time Grammy winner was lauded as Africa's "premier diva" during the announcement, a testament to her four decades of groundbreaking music and unwavering influence. She joins a glittering roster of honourees including singer Miley Cyrus, actor Timothée Chalamet, acclaimed actress Demi Moore, and basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal, all set to be immortalized on Los Angeles' famous cultural landmark.
Angélique Kidjo's recognition is a powerful culmination of over four decades dedicated to her craft. With a discography spanning 16 albums, she has captivated audiences worldwide not only with her commanding vocal presence but also with her extraordinary ability to seamlessly weave together diverse musical traditions. Her distinctive sound masterfully fuses rich West African styles with global genres such as funk, jazz, and R&B, creating a unique and universally appealing sonic tapestry.
Her expansive list of collaborators reads like a who's who of musical legends and contemporary giants, showcasing her versatility and profound respect across genres. From the innovative classical arrangements of Philip Glass to the global appeal of Sting, the soulful artistry of Alicia Keys, and the modern Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy, Kidjo's collaborations underscore her status as a bridge-builder in the global music landscape.
Kidjo's journey to global stardom is deeply intertwined with her personal pursuit of freedom. She grew up in Benin but made the difficult decision to leave for Paris in 1983, a move driven by the oppression she experienced under the country's then-communist government. "From the moment the communist regime arrived in Benin, I became aware that the freedom we enjoy can be snatched away in a second," she candidly told the BBC in 2023, reflecting on the profound impact of those early experiences.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity from childhood – her nickname was reportedly "when, why, how?" – Kidjo sought to understand her place in the world. After a period working as a backing singer in France, she boldly struck out as a solo artist in 1990 with her debut album, Parakou, laying the foundation for an iconic career.
Angélique Kidjo is a tireless humanitarian and advocate. She serves as a Goodwill Ambassador for both Unicef and Oxfam, leveraging her platform to champion critical global issues. Furthermore, she established her own charity, Batonga, an organization dedicated to empowering young girls in Africa through education. This commitment to social change adds another profound layer to her already monumental legacy.
Kidjo now joins Charlize Theron, the acclaimed white South African actress who received her star in 2005, in representing Africa on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which boasts over 2,700 stars. While the specific date for Kidjo's star unveiling has not yet been announced, recipients have a two-year window to schedule their induction ceremonies.
