Five-time Grammy Award winner Angelique Kidjo on Tuesday became the first African to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The ceremony took place under palm trees and picture-perfect California skies and was attended by film stars and music industry titans.
“We Africans don’t know what we’ve given to the world,” the 66-year-old said.
“Without us, there’s no music possible on this planet.”
After thanking her crew and family, Kidjo burst into song as the audience sat transfixed.
Kidjo was born in Benin and has had a successful international career spanning over 40 years and 18 albums.
As well as being named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people, she has also been recognized as one of Africa’s 50 most iconic figures by the BBC and one of the 100 most inspiring people in the world by The Guardian.
Harvey Mason Jr. of the Recording Academy hailed Kidjo as a “rare artist.”
“Your example has elevated our global music community, and your work continues to remind us that music is more than entertainment; it’s connection,” he said.
“This star is a permanent symbol; it’s not going anywhere, and it’s a symbol of your achievements. But your legacy lives in the people that you’ve touched, that you’ve inspired, the barriers that you’ve broken, and the connections you’ve created all around the world.”
Actor Willem Dafoe applauded Kidjo’s immense energy on stage.
“The first time I saw Angelique perform live, I thought her music, her dancing, and her commitment were incredible,” the “Platoon” star said.
“She is, without a doubt, the hardest-working woman in show business.”
However, he said, more impressive was her dedication to the humanitarian work of her Batonga Foundation, which strives to empower girls and young women in Africa.
“This is not a token celebrity involvement; it is an extension of what she does with her music. She stirs us, lifts us up, and reminds us that we’re all connected and that love and understanding are the way.”
