South African music sensation Tyla celebrated a major win at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs), taking home awards for Best Afrobeats, Best African Act, and Best R&B. Competing against heavyweights like Nigeria’s Ayra Starr, Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz, and South Africa’s own DBN Gogo, Tyla stood out in a competitive field, proving her cross-genre appeal.
In her acceptance speech, Tyla honored Afrobeats for its impact on the global music scene. “Thank you to Afrobeats,” she said. “It has opened many doors for African music.” This acknowledgment reflects the genre’s growing influence, as artists worldwide are blending Afrobeats into their sounds. Her latest hit single, “Water,” rooted in Amapiano but infused with Afrobeats elements, has garnered international acclaim and secured her a Best African Act win at the VMAs earlier this year.
Beating out leading Nigerian artists Asake, Rema, Burna Boy, and Tems, Tyla’s dual recognition at the EMAs and VMAs signals a breakthrough moment for African music, with Afrobeats and Amapiano setting the stage for even greater global crossover.
