Angélique Kidjo becomes first African musician with Hollywood Walk of Fame star

Five-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo, a musical icon from Benin, has become the first African musician to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In her acceptance speech, she expressed her desire to dedicate the honor to the entire continent of Africa, highlighting the importance of African contributions to music. Kidjo emphasized that without African influences, genres like blues, R&B, rock and roll, soul, and jazz would not exist.

The 66-year-old musician believes that Africans should appreciate and nurture their own talents, as well as create opportunities for them to thrive economically. She urged for better recognition and support for African artists on their own continent, rather than just relying on global stars. Kidjo, who has been in the music industry for four decades, also expressed her emotional state upon receiving the star, stating that she wished her parents were present to witness this moment.

Among her many accolades, Kidjo has won five Grammy awards and was recently named a Time's 100 Most Influential People. She is also a Unicef and Oxfam goodwill ambassador, as well as the co-founder of the Batonga Foundation. Her latest album, HOPE!!, features collaborations with renowned artists like Pharrell Williams, Ayra Starr, and Nile Rogers.

At the Los Angeles ceremony, Kidjo was honored by fellow celebrities such as Willem Dafoe, Djimon Hounsou, and Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Recording Academy.