Momentum around African music took centre stage at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards as South African pop star Laura “Tyla” Seethal renewed calls for greater African representation on the global music platform following her latest win.

The 24-year-old singer emerged winner in the Best African Music Performance category at the ceremony held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. With her victory, Tyla became the first artiste to win the category twice since it was introduced, having previously claimed the award in 2024 with her breakout hit Water.

Her winning entry, Push 2 Start, further solidified her growing international profile and underscored the expanding global appeal of African pop music. The song blends amapiano influences with pop and R&B elements and appears on her self-titled debut album Tyla, released in 2024. It gained widespread traction through streaming platforms and viral dance challenges across social media.

Speaking to Billboard after receiving the award, Tyla described the moment as deeply affirming for African creatives. She reflected on the significance of global recognition, particularly for artistes emerging from the continent, noting that the win reinforces the belief that African musicians can compete and thrive on the world’s biggest stages.

Beyond celebrating her achievement, the singer used the moment to advocate for increased visibility for African talent at the Grammys. She emphasised the need for more African artistes to be recognised, stating that while progress has been made, broader representation remains essential.

Tyla’s latest triumph strengthens her position as one of Africa’s most successful young music exports. Her sound, rooted in South African amapiano and shaped by global pop sensibilities, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.





The Best African Music Performance category, introduced in 2024 to honour recordings that showcase African musical traditions and contemporary sounds, has quickly become a focal point for celebrating the continent’s diversity. Nigeria’s Tems won the award in 2025, while this year’s nominations featured a strong Nigerian presence, including Burna Boy (Love), Davido featuring Omah Lay (With You), Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid (Gimme Dat), and Eddy Kenzo featuring Mehran Matin (Hope & Love).

Although none of the Nigerian nominees secured the win, Burna Boy received an additional nomination in the Best Global Music Album category for No Sign of Weakness, which was ultimately won by Brazilian legends Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia.

Tyla’s 2026 victory marks the second time she has edged out Nigerian contenders in the category, reinforcing her standout status within the African music landscape.

Beyond individual accolades, the awards ceremony reflected the growing global influence of African music. The event also paid tribute to Nigerian music icon Fela Anikulapo Kuti, who was honoured posthumously with a Lifetime Achievement Award, further underscoring Africa’s enduring impact on global music culture.