On August 18 2026 at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard, Angélique Kidjo will make history as the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The five-time Grammy award winning musician will be presented with the 2,854th star in the category of Recording during an official ceremony, during a historic moment for African music, as artists across the continent achieve unprecedented global reach.
Streamed globally via the official Walk of Fame platform and MC’d by Variety correspondent Angelique Jackson, the ceremony will feature a series guest speakers – including Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr.
Hailing from Benin, the 66-year old Kidjo has forged a groundbreaking four-decade career bridging West African musical traditions with R&B, funk, jazz, and gospel. Named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, her extensive accolade collection includes the Polar Music Prize, the Crystal Award from the World Economic Forum, and the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award. Beyond her artistic contributions, Kidjo serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founded the Batonga Foundation to advance education and economic empowerment for young women across Benin and Senegal.
The historic Walk of Fame ceremony runs concurrent with the launch of Kidjo’s 18th studio LP, HOPE!! that is dedicated to her late mother, that explores themes of renewal with high-profile collaborations with Pharrell Williams, Quavo, Ayra Starr, Davido, Nile Rodgers, Charlie Wilson, IZA, and PJ Morton.
Stating that the new project aims to bring joy and hope to listeners worldwide, Angelique reflected on the milestone, and expressed deep gratitude for her lifelong music career,
Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Ana Martinez highlighted Kidjo’s extraordinary artistry and global influence, affirming that the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor her contributions to music and international culture.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: Schlorle