Tyla: First South African to Win MTV VMA, Takes Home Afrobeats Award
At the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), Tyla became the first South African to win a VMA. She took home the award for Best Afrobeats, a significant achievement for both her and African music. This momentous occasion has put Tyla on the global stage, showcasing her talent and the richness of African music.
The 2024 MTV VMAs was a night to remember, especially for Tyla. Winning the Best Afrobeats award for her hit song “Water,” Tyla made history as the first South African to win a VMA. This win is not just a personal achievement but a milestone for African artists. Tyla’s success highlights the growing influence of African music on the global stage.
Out of excitement she said:
This is just so special, but also bittersweet because I know there’s a tendency to group all African artists under Afrobeat[s]. It’s a thing, and even though Afrobeats has run things and has opened so many doors for us, African music is so diverse, it is more than just Afrobeats.
“I come from South Africa. I represent amapiano. I represent my culture, and I just want to shout out [to] all the Afrobeats artists in this category with me.”
She mentioned Tems, Ayra Starr, Lojay, Rema, Wizkid, and Burna Boy and said: “Africa to the world.”
Tyla’s win at the VMAs is a testament to the power of African music. The Afrobeats category, introduced in 2023, has already seen significant contributions from African artists. Tyla’s victory in this category underscores the diversity and richness of African music. Her song “Water” has captivated audiences worldwide, proving that African music can be both popular and influential.
Tyla’s journey to this historic win has been marked by hard work and dedication. From her early days in Johannesburg to her rise as a global music sensation, Tyla has consistently pushed boundaries. Her unique sound, blending Afrobeats with other genres, has set her apart. This adaptability and innovation have been key to her success.
The Impact of “Water”
“Water,” the song that earned Tyla her VMA, has been a global hit. With over 230 million views on YouTube and nearly 800 million streams on Spotify, the song has resonated with audiences worldwide. Its catchy beat and powerful lyrics have made it a favorite among fans. This success has not only boosted Tyla’s career but also brought African music to the forefront.
A Proud Moment for Africa
Tyla’s win is a significant moment for Africa. It showcases the talent and potential of African artists on a global platform. Tyla’s success at the VMAs is a reminder that African music is diverse and influential. Her win in the Best Afrobeats category is a celebration of this diversity and a recognition of the impact of African music.
As Tyla continues to break barriers and set new records, fans eagerly await her next move. Her historic win at the VMAs is just the beginning. With her talent and determination, Tyla is poised to achieve even greater success. Her journey is an inspiration to many, and her impact on the music industry is undeniable.
