Angélique Kidjo Hollywood Walk of Fame honour makes her first African artiste to receive a star, joining Miley Cyrus and Josh Groban on 2026 list
Beninese-born global music icon, Angélique Kidjo, has become the first African artiste to be honoured with a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The announcement by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has sent waves of pride and celebration across Africa and the global music community.
The five-time Grammy Award-winning artiste, known for her electrifying performances and rich fusion of African rhythms, was named as one of 35 new inductees in the Walk of Fame Class of 2026.
Kidjo joins the likes of Miley Cyrus, Josh Groban, and The Clark Sisters in the Recordings category. This recognition marks a powerful moment for African representation on the global entertainment stage.
Kidjo reacted to the news with pure joy. Sharing the update on her social media page, she reposted the announcement with a caption that read: “Angelique Kidjo is the first African artist in history to be receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.”
Her excitement was shared by thousands of fans who hailed the achievement as historic.
At 64, Kidjo’s contributions to global music and culture are unmatched. Her win of the Polar Music Prize in 2023, often regarded as the “Nobel Prize of Music,” further solidified her place among the most influential musicians of her generation.
Her advocacy for African culture, women’s empowerment, and international dialogue through music has made her a household name far beyond the continent.
“This is not just a win for me,” Kidjo once said in an earlier interview. “It is a win for every African child who dares to dream. Our stories and our sounds belong on the world’s biggest stages.”
She carries the soul of Africa with grace and boldness. This honour belongs to all of us.
While the date for her star unveiling has yet to be announced, anticipation is building for what promises to be a milestone celebration of African artistry.
Kidjo’s star will be installed on the world-famous Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, joining those of music and film legends.
The complete list of honourees includes diverse names across categories such as Motion Pictures, Television, Live Theatre, and Sports Entertainment. Some notable names include Emily Blunt, Rami Malek, Deepika Padukone, Gordon Ramsay, and Shaquille O’Neal.
However, it is Kidjo’s inclusion that stands out as a powerful symbol of African excellence breaking long-standing barriers.
Born in Ouidah, Benin, Angélique Kidjo’s journey began with singing in her mother’s theatre troupe before rising to international fame.
With chart-topping albums, collaborations with global stars, and consistent use of music as a force for good, she has carved out a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
She recently collaborated with Nigerian stars Kizz Daniel and Davido, with her vibrant feature in Davido’s “Joy” video drawing global acclaim.
Fans have praised her for consistently bridging generational and cultural gaps in her music.
A fan in Lagos shared, “Kidjo has always represented more than music. She carries the soul of Africa with grace and boldness. This honour belongs to all of us.”
As the world counts down to the unveiling ceremony, Kidjo’s achievement serves as a reminder of what is possible when talent, passion, and resilience meet global recognition.