Kidjo first African woman to receive Hollywood star

Five-time Grammy winner Angelique Kidjo on Tuesday became the first Black African to be honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
In a ceremony held beneath the palm trees and California skies, Kidjo was joined by film stars, music industry figures and admirers as she unveiled her star on the thoroughfare.
“We Africans don't know what we've given to the world”, the 66-year-old singer told the gathering. “Without us, there's no music possible on this planet”.
After expressing her gratitude to her family, team and longtime supporters, Kidjo broke into song as those present listened in rapt attention.
Born in Benin, Kidjo has built an international career spanning more than four decades and 18 albums. Widely known for her powerful voice, stage presence and distinctive fusion of African musical traditions with global influences, she has become one of the continent's enduring cultural ambassadors.
Her achievements extend far beyond the recording studio. Kidjo has been named among Time magazine's 100 most influential people, while the BBC listed her among Africa's 50 most iconic figures. The Guardian has also recognised her as one of the world's 100 most inspiring people.
Harvey Mason Jr of the Recording Academy described Kidjo as a “rare artist” whose influence has reached beyond entertainment.
“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.
Mason said the star represented a lasting symbol of her extraordinary achievements, while her greater legacy could be seen in the people she has inspired, the barriers she has broken and the connections she has created across cultures and continents.
Actor Willem Dafoe, who also attended the ceremony, praised Kidjo's immense energy, commitment and vitality as a live performer.
“The first time I saw Angelique perform live, I thought her music, her dancing, her commitment were incredible”, the “Platoon” star said. “She is, without a doubt, the hardest-working woman in show business”.
Dafoe said her humanitarian dedication was even more impressive, highlighting the work of the Batonga Foundation, which seeks to empower girls and young women throughout Africa.
“This is not a token celebrity involvement; it is an extension of what she does with her music”, he said. “She stirs us, lifts us up and reminds us that we're all connected and that love and understanding is the way”.
The Hollywood honour permanently places Kidjo's name among the entertainment industry's most celebrated figures, while recognising the cultural influence of an artist whose music and activism have consistently crossed geographical, linguistic and generational boundaries. — AFP