South African singer Tyla has won the Best African Music Performance award at the 2026 Grammy Awards, marking her second win in the category and beating four African heavyweights, including Nigerian stars like Davido, Ayra Starr, and Burna Boy.
Tyla won the award for her hit single “Push 2 Start” two years after she picked up the same award for her song “Water” in 2024.
Reacting to her win after the awards ceremony in Los Angeles, she said, “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.”
A Highly Competitive Category
The Best African Music Performance category has quickly become one of the most closely watched Grammy categories since it was introduced in 2023. By 2026, it had evolved into a space where legacy acts and newer global stars compete side by side.
Tyla’s win placed her in direct comparison with artists who have dominated African charts, international festivals, and global collaborations for years. Winning in such a lineup highlighted not just popularity, but also impact and the Recording Academy’s recognition of evolving sounds coming out of the continent.
From Breakout Star to Grammy Mainstay
Tyla first caught international attention with her breakout hit Water, which introduced her sound to a global audience. Since then, she has steadily built a career that blends African rhythms with pop and R&B influences, appealing to both African and international listeners.
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What the Win Represents
Beyond the award, Tyla’s win reflects a broader moment for African music. For younger artists, especially women, her win sends a clear message that global recognition is no longer limited to how long you have been in the industry alone, but to consistency, growth, and relevance. The win further highlights the growing presence of African women in global music spaces, as newer voices continue to gain recognition alongside long-established acts.
While the Grammys remain an international awards platform, moments like Tyla’s win continue to resonate deeply across Africa. It represents visibility, validation, and the expanding reach of African creativity on the global stage.