Kidjo to receive star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame as first African musician

Angélique Kidjo, a five-time Grammy winner, will soon be immortalized on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. She is set to receive the 2854th star on the iconic sidewalk on August 18, becoming the first singer from Africa to achieve this honor. Actor Willem Dafoe is scheduled to attend the ceremony as a guest speaker.

Kidjo, 66, hails from Benin in West Africa and has been a prominent figure in world music for over three decades. Her career is marked by brilliance across numerous genres, and her five Grammy awards make her the most decorated African musician in the award's history. Beyond her musical achievements, Kidjo is a vocal advocate for her home country and for women's rights globally.

Her latest album, "HOPE!!," released in April, features collaborations with artists such as Pharrell Williams and Quavo. Organizers noted that Kidjo is the first Black African woman to be recognized on the Walk of Fame. This distinction follows actress Charlize Theron, who received a star in 2005.