The Nigerian social media scene has been buzzing in the past few hours following MTV Base’s announcement of Tyla’s win as the Best Afrobeats Artist for 2024.
Tyla’s win came with her track “Water,” which was selected over strong contenders like Burna Boy’s “City Boy,” Ayra Starr’s “Last Heartbreak Song,” Tems’ “Love Me Jeje,” and the collaboration between Davido and Lojay on Chris Brown’s “Sensational.” Tyla’s win is not her first time claiming an award from Nigerian artists. Earlier this year, Tooxclusive reported Tyla’s win at the Grammys, where she secured the Best African Music Performance of 2024, triumphing over big names like Davido, Asake, Olamide, and Burna Boy.
Upon receiving her award for Best Afrobeats Artist of 2024, Tyla took a moment to clarify to the event organizers that she is actually a South African singer. She emphasized that her music leans more toward the Amapiano style, a genre that originated in South Africa, rather than the Afrobeats sound.
In light of Tyla’s win, she also gave a big shoutout to the Nigerian artists she surpassed to claim the title, including Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Tems, Lojay, and Pheelz, acknowledging their talent and contributions to the music industry.
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Read netizens reactions…
@djwowyana:
“I’m glad she acknowledged that they confused her music for Afrobeat. That was honorable and respectful of her.”
@msjafta:
“She fought for everyone in that acceptance speech! She always takes everybody with her. She also did that at the BEt awards aswell. But still it doesn’t mean she doesn’t deserve it.”
@richyyflexy:
“They robbed us again ??? but we’re still the best lol.”
@davidmuriithi:
“Respect to her for acknowledgement of the mistake in category.”
@donpormore:
“Very confident in her submission and approach.. well done sweet girl.”
@desmond__jesse21:
“She didn’t mention Davido.”
@baba_roscoe:
“Shout out to Tyla but that shiiit ain’t Afrobeat. There is nothing Afrobeat about her music.”
@mickiv3lli:
“Afrobeat how? This people just don’t rate us.”
@avalonokpe:
“Well deserved, well-done.”
@apiwebubu:
“Amazing speech!-well done for that.”
Meanwhile, in related news, Tyla’s self-titled album, “TYLA,” climbed to #5 on this week’s Billboard World Albums chart, moving up one spot from the previous week. This achievement was particularly significant as the album previously held the #1 position for an impressive 5 weeks and has now spent a total of 21 weeks on the chart.
The album, “TYLA,” captivated listeners around the globe with its infectious beats, dynamic production, and Tyla’s unmistakable voice. The success of Tyla’s Win on the charts was a testament to her ability to create music that resonates deeply across different cultures and regions. Her blend of pop, Afrobeat, and R&B elements struck a chord with audiences, making “TYLA” a standout project in the global music landscape.
Spending 21 weeks on the Billboard World Albums chart was no small feat, and Tyla’s rise to #5 underscored the album’s continued popularity and relevance. The fact that “TYLA” held the top spot for 5 weeks spoke volumes about its impact, and its longevity on the chart highlighted Tyla’s growing influence in the music industry.
As “TYLA” continued to chart, it was clear that Tyla’s star was on the rise. Her ability to connect with a global audience through her music propelled her to new heights, and her album’s performance on the Billboard chart was a strong indicator of her burgeoning international success. With 21 weeks and counting, “TYLA” remained a powerful force on the global music stage.
