South African singer Tyla has won the Best African Music Performance award at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, held on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, further cementing her growing influence on the global African music stage.
The 24-year-old artiste clinched the award with her hit song “Push 2 Start,” marking her second win in the category since its introduction in 2024.
Tyla emerged ahead of strong competition from Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Burna Boy’s “Love,” Davido and Omah Lay’s “With You,” Ayra Starr and Wizkid’s “Gimme Dat,” as well as Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin’s “Hope & Love.”
Despite multiple nominations in key categories, Nigeria failed to secure a single Grammy at the 2026 ceremony. Nominees Burna Boy, Davido, Omah Lay, Ayra Starr, and Wizkid all missed out on awards, leaving the country without a trophy this year.
The Best African Music Performance category, created in 2024 to spotlight African sounds on the global stage, continues to draw international attention as African music gains wider mainstream appeal.
This year’s win makes Tyla the first artiste to win the category twice, having previously claimed the inaugural award in 2024 with her global breakout hit “Water.” Her repeat victory highlights her rapid rise and sustained dominance within international award circles.
In the Best Global Music Album category, Brazilian legends Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia won the award for Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo, edging out Burna Boy’s No Sign of Weakness.
“Push 2 Start,” lifted from Tyla’s self-titled debut album ‘Tyla’ released in 2024, gained widespread popularity through streaming platforms and social media dance challenges. The song blends amapiano rhythms with polished pop production, centred on themes of romance and self-confidence.
Since emerging from Johannesburg and signing with an international label in 2021, Tyla has recorded major commercial milestones, including a top-25 debut on the Billboard 200 and global chart success with Water.
Beyond individual wins, the 68th Grammy Awards also underscored Africa’s cultural impact, with legendary Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo Kuti honoured posthumously with a Lifetime Achievement Award the night before the ceremony.
