Angelique Kidjo becomes first Black African to receive Hollywood Walk of Fame star

The Beninese-French singer and actress was honoured at a ceremony in Los Angeles on Tuesday, attended by figures from the film and music industries, as she unveiled her star on the famous Hollywood Boulevard.

Kidjo, 66, used the occasion to reflect on Africa's contribution to global music.

“We Africans don’t know what we’ve given to the world. Without us, there’s no music possible on this planet.”

Born in Benin, Kidjo has built an international career spanning more than four decades. She has released 18 albums and won five Grammy Awards, establishing herself as one of Africa's most internationally recognised musicians.

Her career has also extended beyond music. Kidjo has been recognised by Time magazine among its 100 most influential people and has received international recognition for her humanitarian work, including through the Batonga Foundation, which supports the education and empowerment of girls and young women in Africa.

Harvey Mason Jr., chief executive of the Recording Academy, described Kidjo as a “rare artist” whose career had strengthened connections across the global music community.

“Your example has elevated our global music community, and your work continues to remind us that music is more than entertainment; it’s connection,” Mason said.

He added that the star represented Kidjo’s professional achievements, while her wider legacy would be reflected in the people she had influenced and the barriers she had helped break.

Actor Willem Dafoe, who also attended the ceremony, praised Kidjo’s stage presence and commitment to her craft.

“The first time I saw Angelique perform live, I thought her music, her dancing, her commitment were incredible,” Dafoe said.

“She is, without a doubt, the hardest-working woman in show business.”

Dafoe also highlighted Kidjo’s humanitarian work, particularly through the Batonga Foundation, saying her advocacy was an extension of the values expressed through her music.

“This is not a token celebrity involvement; it is an extension of what she does with her music,” he said. “She stirs us, lifts us up, and reminds us that we're all connected, and that love and understanding is the way.”

Kidjo’s Hollywood Walk of Fame honour adds to a career that has seen her work across musical traditions and collaborate internationally, while using her platform to promote African culture and social causes.