Five-time Grammy Award winner Angelique Kidjo is set to make history on Tuesday as the first African musician and Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Beninese music icon, 66, will be honoured at a ceremony in Hollywood in recognition of her outstanding contribution to music and her global cultural influence.
Kidjo has enjoyed an international career spanning more than four decades and has been widely celebrated for her influence on African and world music. Time magazine previously described her as “Africa’s premier diva.”
Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez praised Kidjo’s achievements, describing her artistry and global influence as an inspiration to audiences across generations and continents.
The ceremony will be attended by Oscar-nominated American actor Willem Dafoe and record producer Harvey Mason Jr.
Reacting to the honour when her selection was announced last year, Kidjo expressed hope that her achievement would pave the way for other African musicians.
“I may be the first African female singer to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but I am convinced that I will not be the last,” she said.
“Many others will follow, and that fills my heart with joy.”
The Hollywood Walk of Fame recognition adds to Kidjo’s remarkable career, which includes five Grammy Awards and numerous international honours for her contribution to music and culture.
