South African singer Tyla has won her second Grammy Award, taking home the prize for Best African Music Performance at this year’s ceremony in Los Angeles.
The 24-year-old artist won the award for her song Push 2 Start. She beat several strong contenders in the category, including Nigerian stars Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Davido, as well as Ugandan singer Eddy Kenzo.
Tyla first won the same award in 2024 for her global hit Water, where she also outshined a number of Nigerian artists. Her latest victory further confirms her rising influence on the international music scene.
Speaking after receiving the award, Tyla expressed her excitement and pride. 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.”
Following her win, congratulatory messages flooded social media, especially from fans in South Africa. The phrase “Congratulations Tyla” trended online, with many praising her achievement. One social media user wrote, “South Africa is proud of you! We are proud of you!” Another person, while admitting they had hoped Ayra Starr would win, still praised Tyla, saying, “You deserve it.”
The nominees in the Best African Music Performance category were:
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
Despite the strong presence of Afrobeats globally, many Nigerian music fans were disappointed that none of their country’s artists won in the category.
Burna Boy was also nominated in the Best Global Music Album category, alongside Senegalese legend Youssou N’Dour. Beninese icon Angélique Kidjo received a nomination in the Best Global Music Performance category. However, none of them won their respective awards.
There was, however, a moment of recognition for Nigeria’s late music legend Fela Kuti, who was posthumously honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award, 29 years after his death.
Another South African also had a memorable night. Comedian Trevor Noah hosted the main Grammy ceremony for the sixth and final time. However, his performance drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who later threatened legal action after Noah made a joke referencing Trump and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during the show.
