Five-time GRAMMY-winning musician Angélique Kidjo is set to make history as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The West African icon will be awarded the 2,854th star in the category of Recording during an official ceremony on 18 August 2026 at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard.
The milestone comes at a historic moment for African music, as artists across the continent achieve unprecedented global reach. Emceed by Variety correspondent Angelique Jackson, the ceremony will feature guest speakers including acclaimed actor Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. The event will be streamed globally via the official Walk of Fame platform.
Hailing from Benin, Kidjo has forged a groundbreaking four-decade career bridging West African musical traditions with R&B, funk, jazz, and gospel. Named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, her extensive accolade collection includes the Polar Music Prize, the Crystal Award from the World Economic Forum, and the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award. Beyond her artistic contributions, Kidjo serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founded the Batonga Foundation to advance education and economic empowerment for young women across Benin and Senegal.
The historic ceremony coincides with the launch of Kidjo's 18th studio album, HOPE!!. Dedicated to her late mother, the project explores themes of renewal and features high-profile collaborations with Pharrell Williams, Quavo, Ayra Starr, Davido, Nile Rodgers, Charlie Wilson, IZA, and PJ Morton.
Reflecting on the milestone, Kidjo expressed deep gratitude for her lifelong music career, noting that the new project aims to bring joy and hope to listeners worldwide.
Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, highlighted Kidjo’s extraordinary artistry and global influence, affirming that the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor her contributions to music and international culture.
