Angélique Kidjo is set to become the first African musician and first Black African performer to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The recognition marks a significant milestone for African representation at the landmark and honours Kidjo’s long international career blending West African music with global styles.

Kidjo will receive the 2,854th star on 18 August at 7011 Hollywood Boulevard, with Willem Dafoe and Recording Academy chief Harvey Mason jr. among those attending. Born in Benin and based in Paris from 1983, the 64-year-old has released 19 albums, won five Grammys and received the Polar Music Prize in 2023; her collaborators include Burna Boy, Alicia Keys, Sting and Peter Gabriel.