South African sensation Tyla has once again claimed the global spotlight, winning the Best African Music Performance award at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards.
The 24-year-old singer secured the trophy with her hit single “Push 2 Start,” marking her second victory in the category. Tyla previously made history as the inaugural winner in 2024 with her breakout global anthem, “Water.”
The win solidifies her status as a dominant force in the international music scene, having now won the title twice since the category’s inception.
The 2026 nominations featured a formidable line-up of African heavyweights. Tyla emerged victorious against stiff competition fromBurna Boy (“Love”), Davido (feat. Omah Lay, “With You”), Ayra Starr (feat. Wizkid, “Gimme Dat”) and Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin (“Hope & Love”).
“Push 2 Start,” a standout track from her self-titled debut album Tyla, has resonated globally through its seamless fusion of Amapiano rhythms, pop and R&B. The track’s success was propelled by widespread streaming and viral social media dance challenges.
Tyla’s win also continues a three-year streak of female dominance in this category, following Tems, who took home the prize in 2025.
Beyond Tyla’s individual success, the 68th Grammys served as a landmark moment for the continent’s musical heritage. On the eve of the main ceremony, the Recording Academy posthumously honoured Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The legendary musician’s children, Femi, Yeni and Kunle Kuti, accepted the honour on his behalf, celebrating his enduring influence on global culture.
