Angélique Kidjo Makes Hollywood Walk Of Fame History As First African Musician And First Black African To Receive Star

"If you had told me when I was a little girl in Benin that one day I would have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, I never would have believed you," Angélique expressed. "I am so honored to be here today and deeply grateful for this moment. I carry with me my family, my country, the generations of African artists who came before me, and all the young people who are dreaming about what is possible for their own lives. I hope this star can be a reminder to them to dream big, to stay true to who they are, and to never let anyone tell them where they can or cannot go."

The historic recognition arrives at a defining moment for African music, as artists from across the continent continue to reach new audiences and reshape popular culture around the world. Over the course of her four-decade career, Kidjo has helped open pathways for African artists on the global stage, making today's honor both a celebration of her singular legacy and a reflection of a movement she helped advance.

The milestone comes during another major creative chapter for Kidjo, who recently released her acclaimed new album HOPE!!. Dedicated to her late mother, Yvonne, the album is a deeply personal exploration of grief, resilience, joy and the sustaining power of hope. The 18th album in Kidjo's acclaimed discography brings together generations of artists from across music, with appearances from Pharrell Williams, Quavo, Ayra Starr, Davido, Nile Rodgers, Charlie Wilson, IZA, PJ Morton and more. Pharrell produced three songs on the project, including album standout "Bando," featuring Pharrell and Quavo, which recently closed Louis Vuitton's Spring-Summer 2027 Men's Show in Paris. An official music video for "Bando" featuring Kidjo, Pharrell and Quavo is forthcoming.

The Walk of Fame ceremony follows Kidjo's performance and Q&A at the GRAMMY Museum yesterday, August 17, and comes just days before she headlines SummerStage in Central Park this Sunday, August 23.

Kidjo's Hollywood Walk of Fame star adds another landmark honor to a career that has transcended borders, genres and generations. She is a five-time GRAMMY winner and 16-time nominee, was named one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People, and has received honors including the Polar Music Prize, the Vilcek Prize in Music, the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award, and the World Economic Forum Crystal Award. In 2024, she performed at the historic reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Beyond music, Kidjo has spent decades using her platform in service of others. She is a longtime UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founder of the Batonga Foundation, which has built a powerful, locally led movement advancing education, leadership and economic empowerment for girls and young women across Benin and Senegal.