LOS ANGELES — Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has made history with her recognition on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, becoming the first African musician to receive the prestigious honor.
The five-time Grammy Award winner was selected for the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026 in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to international music and culture.
Kidjo has spent more than four decades building a global career that blends West African musical traditions with jazz, funk, soul, pop, Latin and other international sounds.
Her music has helped introduce African rhythms, stories and cultural traditions to audiences around the world.
Beyond her musical achievements, Kidjo has become a prominent advocate for children, girls' education, human rights and social development.
Through her international platform and charitable work, she has consistently used music as a vehicle for cultural connection and social change.
Her Hollywood recognition represents more than an individual career achievement. It is also being celebrated as an important moment for African music and the growing influence of African artists on the global entertainment industry.
Kidjo's career has included collaborations with some of the world's most respected musicians while maintaining a strong connection to her Beninese and wider African heritage.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame honor adds another major milestone to a career that has established Angélique Kidjo as one of Africa's most influential musical ambassadors.
