Five-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo has become the first African musician to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Beninese singer unveiled the 2,854th star on August 18 in Los Angeles, marking a major recognition for African music.

The Walk of Fame is one of Hollywood’s best-known public landmarks. Its stars recognize figures across recording, film, television, radio, theatre and sports entertainment. She joins Black icons such as Michael Jackson, Muhammed Ali, Stevie Wonder and a host of others. Kidjo star sits at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard in the Recording category.

Her honor also carries a wider distinction. Kidjo is the first African musician and first Black African to receive a star. She is only the second African-born entertainer recognized on the boulevard, after South African actress Charlize Theron received hers in 2005.

Kidjo’s career helped establish African music within global popular culture. Her 1990s hit “Agolo” became a major dance track, while her music connected West African sounds with funk, jazz and pop. That international reach has earned her five Grammy Awards from 16 nominations.

On the day of the unveiling, Hollywood figures and African stars were present to support her. Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. served as guest speakers. Dafoe praised Kidjo’s extraordinary energy, musicianship and commitment to humanitarian work. Mason described her as an artist whose impact extends beyond the stage.

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold and Beninese actor Djimon Hounsou also attended the ceremony alongside Kidjo’s family and friends. Kidjo used the occasion to frame the honour as recognition for Africa’s wider musical contribution.

The celebration extended beyond the star itself. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce officially declared August 18 Angélique Kidjo Day in Hollywood. Her name now sits on the boulevard as another marker of African music’s growing place in global culture.