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Tyla secures back-to-back Grammy in African music category
South African singer Tyla has claimed her second Grammy Award in as many years, winning the Best African Music Performance prize for her track Push 2 Start. The 24-year-old triumphed over a field that included three Nigerian artists-Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Davido-as well as Uganda's Eddy Kenzo.
Reaction to the victory
Speaking after the ceremony in Los Angeles, Tyla described the moment as overwhelming. "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," she said.
Social media erupted with congratulatory messages, with "Congratulations Tyla" trending across platforms in South Africa and beyond. One X user wrote, "South Africa is proud of you! We are proud of you!" Another, while admitting they had hoped Starr would win, acknowledged Tyla's hard work: "You deserve it."
Nigerian artists miss out despite strong nominations
Disappointment rippled through Nigeria's music community after none of its nominees took home an award, despite Afrobeats' global popularity. Burna Boy was also shortlisted in the Best Global Music Album category, competing against Senegal's Youssou N'Dour, while Angelique Kidjo earned a nomination for Best Global Music Performance. Neither won.
The sole Nigerian recognition came posthumously: Fela Kuti received a Lifetime Achievement Award, 29 years after his death.
Other highlights from the ceremony
South Africa celebrated another moment in the spotlight as comedian Trevor Noah hosted the main Grammy ceremony for the sixth-and final-time. However, his night took a contentious turn when US former President Donald Trump threatened legal action over a joke Noah made linking Trump to Jeffrey Epstein.
Full list of Best African Music Performance nominees
- Tyla - Push 2 Start (Winner)
- Ayra Starr - Unavailable
- Burna Boy - City Boys
- Davido (feat. Musa Keys) - UNAVAILABLE
- Eddy Kenzo - Sitya Loss
