South African singer Tyla edges out Davido to clinch Grammy
Tyla bagged the same prize in 2024 for her global hit Water, also beating a host of Nigerian stars.
South African singer Tyla has won her first Grammy Award, marking a historic moment for both her career and African music on the global stage. The 22-year-old artist clinched the award for Best African Music Performance at the 66th Grammy Awards with her global hit song “Water.” The category, newly introduced by the Recording Academy, celebrates excellence in African music and its growing international influence.
“Water,” released in 2023, became a worldwide sensation, topping charts, dominating streaming platforms and going viral on social media with its infectious dance challenge. The song’s success helped propel Tyla from a rising South African talent to an international star, earning her widespread recognition beyond the continent.
Tyla’s win places her among a new generation of African artists gaining mainstream global acclaim while staying true to their roots. During her acceptance, she acknowledged Africa and the culture that inspired her sound, a moment that resonated strongly with fans across the continent.
The Grammy victory is widely seen as a breakthrough for African music, reinforcing its place on the world’s biggest music stages and highlighting the genre’s growing impact. For Tyla, the award represents a major milestone and a clear sign that her journey is only just beginning.
