Africans Shine at the 68th Grammy Awards as Fela Kuti, Tyla, and Shaboozey Make History

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards was more than just music and red carpets — it was a powerful reminder of Africa’s growing influence on the global music stage. From historic firsts to emotional wins, African excellence stood tall throughout the weekend in Los Angeles.

🎖️ Fela Kuti Makes Grammy History
The celebrations began on a legendary note as the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti became the first African artist to receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

The honour was presented during the Recording Academy’s Special Merit Awards, with his children — Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa, and Femi Kuti — accepting the award on his behalf. In an emotional moment, Yeni Kuti said she believed their father was “smiling down on them” as his pioneering Afrobeat legacy received global recognition decades after his passing.

🌍 Tyla Becomes a Two-Time Grammy Winner
On Sunday night at the Crypto.com Arena, South African star Tyla cemented her place in Grammy history by winning Best African Music Performance for her song “Push 2 Start.”

This marks her second win in the category since it was introduced in 2024, making her one of the most successful artists in the genre’s short Grammy history.

She triumphed over a highly competitive lineup that included:
• Burna Boy – Love
• Davido ft. Omah Lay – With You
• Ayra Starr ft. Wizkid – Gimme Dat
• Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin – Hope & Love

🏆 Shaboozey Bags First Grammy Win
Nigerian-American artist Shaboozey also had a career-defining night, winning Best Country Duo/Group Performancefor “Amen” alongside Jelly Roll.

In his acceptance speech, the Igbo-descended singer paid tribute to his mother and delivered a powerful message on immigration, reminding the audience that “immigrants literally built this country.”

✨ African Presence Felt Everywhere
Although global icons like Angélique Kidjo, Burna Boy, and Youssou N’dour did not win awards this year, Africa’s presence was undeniable — from nominations to performances and cultural impact.

The 2026 Grammys didn’t just celebrate music — they celebrated Africa’s past, present, and future on the world stage.