South African singer Tyla has clinched her second consecutive Grammy Award, taking home the Best African Music Performance trophy at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, February 2, 2026.
The 24-year-old global star won for her hit “Push 2 Start”, defeating a strong field of nominees that included three Nigerian artists and one Ugandan act.
Full List of Nominees – Best African Music Performance
Love – Burna Boy (Nigeria)
With You – Davido featuring Omah Lay (Nigeria)
Hope & Love – Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin (Uganda)
Gimme Dat – Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid (Nigeria)
Push 2 Start – Tyla (South Africa)
Tyla’s win marks back-to-back victories in the category, having previously won in 2024 for her breakout global smash “Water” also beating a predominantly Nigerian field that year.
Accepting the award on stage at Crypto.com Arena, Tyla was visibly emotional: “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.”
Subscribe To The Best Team In Conservative, Business, Technology, Lifestyle And Digital News Realtime! support@ddnewsonline.com
The victory sparked massive celebration across South Africa, with #CongratulationsTyla and #SouthAfricaIsProud trending worldwide. Social media users praised her work ethic while some Nigerian fans expressed disappointment but acknowledged the quality of her music.
One South African fan posted: “South Africa is proud of you! We are proud of you!”
A Nigerian user wrote: “I wanted Davido to win, but Tyla worked hard. You deserve it.”
The night also saw South African comedian Trevor Noah host the main ceremony for the sixth consecutive year, adding to the African presence on the Grammy stage.
Tyla’s back-to-back wins solidify her as one of the fastest-rising global stars from the continent and further cement the growing international dominance of African music.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
Send tips to: adeyemi@ddnewsonline.com | 08168555497