Angélique Kidjo, the renowned West African singer, has made history by becoming the first black African artist to earn a star on the illustrious Hollywood Walk of Fame. The announcement, showcasing 35 honorees for the upcoming Walk of Fame class of 2026, commemorates Kidjo's incredible musical journey, which has spanned over 40 years and resulted in five Grammy Awards.
At the age of 64, Kidjo was praised as Africa's "premier diva" during the unveiling. Alongside her, other prominent artists such as Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Shaquille O'Neal are set to be honored with their own stars in Los Angeles.
Kidjo's illustrious career features the release of 16 albums and collaborations with renowned artists like Burna Boy, Sting, and Alicia Keys. Her unique ability to blend traditional West African sounds with various genres, including funk and jazz, has captivated audiences worldwide.
Kidjo, who left her homeland of Benin for Paris in 1983 due to political oppression, recalls her early years shaped by curiosity and a desire to understand the world around her. Starting her music career as a backing singer in France, she launched her solo career in 1990 with the album "Parakou."
In addition to her musical achievements, Kidjo is a devoted UNICEF and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and the founder of Batonga, a charity that focuses on promoting education for young girls in Africa. While the date for Kidjo's star unveiling is yet to be determined, it marks a significant milestone in her celebrated life and career, adding her name to the more than 2,700 stars on the Walk of Fame.
At the age of 64, Kidjo was praised as Africa's "premier diva" during the unveiling. Alongside her, other prominent artists such as Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Shaquille O'Neal are set to be honored with their own stars in Los Angeles.
Kidjo's illustrious career features the release of 16 albums and collaborations with renowned artists like Burna Boy, Sting, and Alicia Keys. Her unique ability to blend traditional West African sounds with various genres, including funk and jazz, has captivated audiences worldwide.
Kidjo, who left her homeland of Benin for Paris in 1983 due to political oppression, recalls her early years shaped by curiosity and a desire to understand the world around her. Starting her music career as a backing singer in France, she launched her solo career in 1990 with the album "Parakou."
In addition to her musical achievements, Kidjo is a devoted UNICEF and Oxfam goodwill ambassador and the founder of Batonga, a charity that focuses on promoting education for young girls in Africa. While the date for Kidjo's star unveiling is yet to be determined, it marks a significant milestone in her celebrated life and career, adding her name to the more than 2,700 stars on the Walk of Fame.
