South African singer Tyla has won her second Grammy, beating four others, including three Nigerian artists, to take the Best African Music Performance award.
The 24-year-old won for her song Push 2 Start, which was chosen above songs by Ugandan musician Eddy Kenzo, Davido, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr. In 2024, Tyla won the same award for her international hit Water, defeating other Nigerian celebrities. Reacting to her win after the awards ceremony in Los Angeles, she exclaimed: “This is insane, this is so insane! I’m just so lucky to be here, and I’m so proud to be African. I’m excited to see more of us over here.”
“Congratulations Tyla” has been trending on social media in South Africa and elsewhere.
Although many had hoped Starr had won, another acknowledged that Tyla had put in a lot of effort, saying, “You deserve it.”
List of nominees in Best African Music Performance category:
- Love – Burna Boy
- With You – Davido featuring Omah Lay
- Hope & Love – Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin
- Gimme Dat – Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid
- Push 2 Start – Tyla
There was disappointment among Nigerian music lovers after none of the country’s stars won, despite the global success of Afrobeats. In addition, Burna Boy and Youssou N’Dour of Senegal were nominated for Best Global Music Album, while Angelique Kidjo was nominated for Best Global Music Performance.
None of them got to take home the famous gramophone player statuette.
One Nigerian star received recognition: Fela Kuti was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award 29 years after his death.
