Beninese music legend Angélique Kidjo has made history as the first African musician and first Black African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The five-time Grammy Award winner was honored on August 18, 2026, during a ceremony on Hollywood Boulevard, receiving the 2,854th star in the Walk of Fame’s Recording category.

The landmark recognition celebrates Kidjo’s extraordinary career spanning more than four decades. Born in Benin, the singer has built an international legacy by blending West African rhythms, Afropop, jazz, funk, soul, gospel and Latin influences, becoming one of Africa’s most influential musical ambassadors.

Kidjo was joined at the ceremony by Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., who both praised her artistic achievements and her impact beyond music.

Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez highlighted Kidjo’s global influence, describing her artistry as something that has inspired audiences across generations and continents.

The historic achievement also makes Kidjo only the second African-born entertainer to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, following South African-born actress Charlize Theron, who received hers in 2005.

For Kidjo, however, the honor represents more than an individual achievement. During her speech, she emphasized Africa’s enormous contribution to global music and culture, framing the recognition as a milestone for the continent and generations of African artists.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce also officially declared August 18, 2026, “Angélique Kidjo Day” in Hollywood.

Kidjo’s career has already earned her numerous international accolades, including five Grammy Awards, and collaborations with global stars such as Bono, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Peter Gabriel, Yo-Yo Ma and Burna Boy.

Her Hollywood Walk of Fame star now adds another historic achievement to a career that has consistently pushed African music onto the world’s biggest stages.

Angélique Kidjo has officially left her mark on Hollywood and opened the door for generations of African artists to follow.