Angélique Kidjo is set to make history as the first African musician to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Beninese singer’s star ceremony will take place on Aug. 18 at 11:30 a.m. PT at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard. She will receive the 2,854th star on the famous Hollywood landmark.
Joining Kidjo at the ceremony will be Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe and Grammy and Primetime Emmy-nominated songwriter and producer Harvey Mason jr., who serves as CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares. Variety correspondent Angelique Jackson will host the event.
Her career includes five Grammy Awards. She won Best Contemporary World Music Album in 2008 and later earned four Best Global Music Album wins between 2015 and 2022. In 2023, she was also awarded the prestigious Polar Music Prize.
Kidjo has released 19 albums since beginning her recording career in 1981. Her music draws from West African traditions while incorporating elements of funk, jazz, R&B, and other global sounds. Her reputation has also been strengthened by an impressive list of collaborations. She has worked with artists including Burna Boy, Philip Glass, Sting, Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, John Legend, Bono, and Yo-Yo Ma.
Kidjo will join Charlize Theron as one of the African-born figures represented on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Theron, who was born in South Africa, received her star in 2005.
For Kidjo, the honour marks another milestone in a career that has taken West African music to audiences around the world. Her upcoming star will recognise not only her achievements as a recording artist but also her lasting influence on global music.
