Angelique Kidjo to receive star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Angelique Kidjo, the Benin-born global music icon, is set to make history as the first Black African performer awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The announcement came last July, and Kidjo expressed her disbelief upon hearing the news from her husband. “I said, ‘If this is a joke, it’s not funny at all,’” she recalled, reports BritPanorama.
Kidjo will be inducted into the 2026 class in August, joining luminaries such as Demi Moore, Miley Cyrus, and Timothée Chalamet. She articulated her acknowledgment of this significant milestone, stating, “It’s really daunting. For me, to absorb that is gonna take some time,” and emphasized that this recognition might open doors for others from diverse backgrounds. “I think it’s a door that I start opening for more to come, from every walk of life,” she added.
This accolade not only underscores Kidjo’s extensive impact on the music industry but also highlights her role in challenging stereotypes about African artists. At 65 years old, Kidjo’s journey began with her escape from Benin’s communist regime in 1983, and she has since used her platform to redefine Western perceptions of Africa. Her iconic 1991 album, Logozo, presented her as a contemporary African woman, symbolizing strength and resilience in response to societal expectations.
Kidjo’s musical collaborations read like a who’s who of the industry, having worked with notable figures such as Bono, Alicia Keys, and John Legend. She garnered her first Grammy award in 2008 for the album Djin Djin, which showcased her diverse musical repertoire blending afrobeat, funk, jazz, reggae, and gospel. Her innovative projects include reimagining Talking Heads’ album Remain in Light and creating Celia, a tribute to Cuban music legend Celia Cruz.
Kidjo’s most recent work, her 19th studio album entitled HOPE!!, reflects her commitment to positivity during challenging times. Collaborating with contemporary African artists such as Burna Boy and Sampa the Great, she aims to provide an uplifting message amidst global uncertainty. The album features production from influential figures, including Pharrell Williams, who expressed admiration for her talent during a performance at the Vatican.
The themes of HOPE!! are particularly poignant for Kidjo, who lost her mother during the pandemic. This personal loss influenced her creative process; she speaks of transferring traits from her late mother, such as resilience and determination, into her music. “I want to share… the spirit of my mother,” she stated, highlighting her desire to inspire the next generation through her work.
Kidjo’s advocacy extends beyond music; she has been active in charitable efforts, partnering with organizations like UNICEF and Oxfam, and founded the Batonga Foundation to support education for girls in Africa.
As she continues to break barriers within the industry, Kidjo affirms her belief in hope as a counter to division and hatred. “I don’t believe in hate. I believe in hope,” she insists, emphasizing the power of music to unify and inspire.
‘HOPE!!’ is out now.
