The 66-year-old five-time Grammy Award winner received the honour on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at a ceremony attended by prominent figures from the film and music industries.
After unveiling the star bearing her name, Kidjo said Africa has played a major role in shaping music around the world, although Africans themselves do not always recognize the continent’s contribution.
“We Africans do not know what we have given to the world. Without us, there would be no music on this planet,” she said.
Kidjo thanked her family and the team that has supported her throughout her career before performing for those who attended the ceremony.
Born in Benin, the singer has spent more than 40 years in the music industry and has released 18 albums.
She has also been recognized among the world’s most influential people by Time Magazine. The BBC named her among its 50 most iconic African artists of all time, while The Guardian included her on its list of the 100 most inspiring people in the world.
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. praised Kidjo, describing her as a unique artist whose work has contributed significantly to taking African music to a global audience.
He said the star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame would remain as a lasting symbol of her achievements, but added that her greatest legacy could be seen in the lives of people who have been transformed by her work.
Actor Willem Dafoe also congratulated Kidjo, praising her energy on stage. He said he was amazed by her music, dancing and passion when he first saw her perform live.
