Tyla Triumphs, Depriving Nigeria of Grammy Glory
Tyla, a South African music sensation, won the inaugural Grammy for best African music performance for her viral global hit Water, defeating Nigeria’s Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, and Asake.
Tyla’s South African fans are ecstatic, but many Nigerians are outraged.
Following her victory, some Nigerians took to social media to express their surprise that Tyla, a relative newcomer to the African music scene, outperformed the more experienced Nigerian Afrobeats stars nominated alongside her.
However, many of Tyla’s fans believe her win was well-deserved, citing the massive success of her Grammy-winning hit.
Last year, Water became a global summer anthem, breaking streaming records and dominating charts such as the Billboard Hot 100.
“It’s crazy! I never expected to win a Grammy at the age of 22!” Tyla exclaimed as she accepted the prestigious award in the United States on Sunday night, looking stunning 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 and South African comedian Trevor Noah hosting music’s biggest event for a record fourth consecutive time.