Angélique Kidjo To Become First African Musician Honoured With Star On Hollywood Walk Of Fame

Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo will make history on August 18, 2026, when she receives a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, becoming the first African musician and the first Black African performer to earn the prestigious honour.

The five-time Grammy Award winner will unveil the 2,854th star in the Recording category at 11:30 a.m. PT at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard, across the street from the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

The outdoor ceremony will be streamed live on the official Hollywood Walk of Fame website.

Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe and Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, are scheduled to speak at the event. Variety correspondent Angelique Jackson will serve as emcee.

Kidjo, born in Benin and based for decades in Paris and the United States, has built a celebrated career spanning more than four decades.

She is known for blending West African musical traditions with funk, jazz, R&B, and other global styles.

Her accolades include five Grammy Awards (primarily in the global music categories), the Polar Music Prize, and recognition as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People. She has released nearly 20 albums and collaborated with artistes ranging from Sting and Alicia Keys to Burna Boy, Pharrell Williams, and Quavo. Her most recent album, HOPE!!, arrived earlier in 2026.

“The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Angélique Kidjo to the Hollywood Walk of Fame,” said Ana Martinez, producer of the Walk of Fame.

“Angélique Kidjo’s extraordinary artistry and global influence have inspired audiences across generations and continents. We are proud to honor her as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing her remarkable contributions to music and culture around the world," she added.

Until now, the only African-born entertainer with a star on the Walk of Fame was South African actress Charlize Theron, who received hers in 2005.

Kidjo’s recognition comes amid rising global visibility for African music and artistes.

The honour arrives as Kidjo continues an active period of performing and recording, cementing her status as one of Africa’s most influential musical ambassadors.