South African singer Tyla has clinched the Best African Music Performance award at the 2026 Grammy Awards, triumphing over some of Nigeria’s biggest stars including Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr.
Her track PUSH 2 START earned her the prestigious accolade, marking a significant milestone in her rapidly rising career and reinforcing her position as one of Africa’s most influential new voices on the global stage.
Read Also: Bad Bunny makes Grammy history with Spanish-language album win, Kendrick Lamar wins Best Rap Album
The Nominees
The category featured a strong lineup of African talent:
- 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 (Winner)
Nigerian Heavyweights Miss Out
Despite their global recognition and past Grammy nominations, Nigerian superstars Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr were edged out by Tyla’s performance. Burna Boy, who previously won Best Global Music Album in 2021, had been tipped as a strong contender with his single Love. Davido’s collaboration with Omah Lay and Ayra Starr’s joint effort with Wizkid also generated significant buzz ahead of the ceremony.
Tyla’s victory explains the growing diversity and competitiveness of African music on the international stage. Her win follows the global success of her earlier hit Water, which topped charts worldwide and introduced her to a broader audience.
The Best African Music Performance category, introduced in 2024, has become a focal point for celebrating the continent’s rich musical heritage. Tyla’s win highlights the increasing recognition of African artists in mainstream global music and the Grammys’ evolving inclusivity.
