Nigerian artists were edged out by South African music sensation Tyla who won the inaugural Grammy award for best African music performance, with her viral global hit Water. She edged out Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr and Asake.
The Grammys also had South African comedian, Trevor Noah hosting music’s biggest event for a record fourth, consecutive time.
As the win excited South Africans, it was greeted with controversy among many Nigerians who took to social media to express dismay that Tyla, a relative newcomer to the African music scene, triumphed over the more seasoned Nigerian Afrobeats stars nominated alongside her.
But many of Tyla’s fans see her win as deserved, citing the massive success of her Grammy-winning hit.
Last year, Water became a global summer anthem, propelling it to smash records on streaming platforms and dominate charts including the US Billboard Hot 100.
“This is crazy! I never thought I’d say I won a Grammy at 22 years old!”, Tyla exclaimed as she accepted the prestigious award in the US on Sunday night, while dazzling in a custom Versace gown.
Some Africans on social media have hailed Sunday’s Grammys as a historic moment for the continent’s talent – with Tyla winning, Burna Boy performing.
