Tyla Wins Best African Music Performance | 2024 GRAMMYs
South African songstress Tyla clinches a Grammy for Best African Music Performance, securing the accolade for her afropiano and R&B track “Water,” which has garnered widespread acclaim globally.
The win occurred at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards premiere ceremony at Los Angeles’s Peacock Theater. Tyla’s victory triumphed over other African luminaries such as Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, ASAKE & Olamide, and Davido featuring South African artist Musa Keys.
In her exuberant acceptance speech, Tyla exclaimed, “Oh my – what the heck! This is crazy. Like I never thought I’d say, ‘I won a Grammy at 22 years old, guys.'” She expressed gratitude to God, her team, and family, acknowledging her mother’s emotional reaction.
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Tyla extended her thanks to the Recording Academy for the crucial category, emphasizing the significance of the award.
The category, Best African Music Performance, was introduced for the 2024 Grammys, marking a notable addition. Tyla had earlier expressed her appreciation for the nomination in a December 2023 interview, describing it as a “blessing.” The award was presented by veteran music producer Jimmy Jam.
Donning a green dress, Tyla showcased her elation as she walked on stage to the live band playing “Water No Get Enemy” by Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. South African comedian Trevor Noah, nominated for Best Comedy Album, ultimately lost to Dave Chappelle.
Additionally, Theron Thomas, a writer on Tyla’s “Been Thinking” and contributor to works by Lil Durk, Jung Kook, and others, secured the Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical category.
Tyla’s hit single “Water,” released in July 2023, triggered a global TikTok dance challenge and reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. This marked a historic achievement, with Tyla becoming the youngest South African to feature on the prestigious chart since Hugh Masekela’s “Grazing in the Grass” 55 years ago.