South African singer Tyla has emerged winner of the Best African Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammy Awards, defeating Nigerian heavyweights Burna Boy, Davido and Ayra Starr.
The singer secured the honour with her track, push 2 Start, beating Burna Boy’s Love, Davido’s with You featuring Omah Lay, Ayra Starr and Wizkid’s Gimme Dat, as well as Hope & Love by Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin.
The award category, created to promote African music on the global stage, once again saw a strong Nigerian presence, with three Nigerian artistes making the final shortlist.
With the latest victory, Tyla has now won the category twice since its introduction in 2024. She first claimed the award with her global hit Water, becoming the inaugural recipient.
Despite multiple nominations, Nigerian artistes ended the night without a win, continuing a mixed showing for the country at the 2026 edition of the awards.
The ceremony featured nominees and winners across several genres, reflecting the growing global recognition of African music, even as competition within the continent remains intense.
