In a historic moment for African music and global representation, iconic Beninese singer and activist Angélique Kidjo has been announced as one of the newest inductees into the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026, making her the first African-born female artist to receive this prestigious honour.
The announcement, made by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce on July 2, recognizes Kidjo’s remarkable contributions to world music, cultural advocacy, and humanitarian work over a career spanning four decades. The award places her name alongside global superstars such as Miley Cyrus, Shaquille O’Neal, Timothée Chalamet, and Deepika Padukone, who are also part of the 2026 selection.
Angélique Kidjo’s selection for a Hollywood Walk of Fame star is more than a personal milestone; it represents a seismic cultural shift and a symbolic victory for African entertainers striving for global visibility.
The five-time Grammy Award winner is renowned for her genre-defying music that blends traditional West African sounds with Afrobeat, funk, jazz, and Latin influences. With hit albums like Black Ivory Soul, Oyaya!, and Mother Nature, Kidjo has consistently used her platform to promote African heritage and empower young women and girls.
Speaking about the honour, Kidjo said:
“This star is not just mine. It belongs to all African girls who dream big, all the artists from the continent who deserve global recognition. It’s a moment of pride for us all.”
Born in Ouidah, Benin, in 1960, Angélique Kidjo started her musical journey performing in her mother’s theatre troupe. Over the years, she has released more than 15 albums and performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, from Carnegie Hall to the Nobel Peace Prize Concert.
Beyond music, Kidjo is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founder of the Batonga Foundation, which promotes education and leadership for girls in Africa. She is also known for her advocacy on climate change, gender equality, and cultural preservation.
Her ability to balance artistry with activism has earned her widespread acclaim, including honorary doctorates from Yale University and Berklee College of Music, as well as being listed among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People.
While the selection has been announced, inductees have up to two years to schedule their official star-unveiling ceremony on the iconic Hollywood Boulevard. According to organizers, a date for Angélique Kidjo’s ceremony will be announced soon, and the event is expected to attract global media, celebrities, and members of the African diaspora.
Her upcoming album and a potential world tour are also reportedly in the works, making 2025–2026 a landmark period in her already legendary career.
Social media has been buzzing with congratulatory messages, with Nigerian stars like Burna Boy, Yemi Alade, and Tiwa Savage celebrating the milestone. Veteran broadcaster Mo Abudu posted:
“Angélique Kidjo continues to inspire us all. This is a win for Africa. Our stories, our voices, our music matter.”
Meanwhile, fans across Africa and the diaspora have called for a massive celebratory concert in Lagos or Cotonou to honour her achievement.