South African singer Tyla has made history at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards (BBMAs), emerging as the Top Afrobeats Artist and winning the Top Afrobeats Song award for her chart-topping global hit, Water. The Johannesburg-born star surpassed Nigerian heavyweights Burna Boy, Rema, Tems, and Asake to claim the prestigious titles, solidifying her place as a leading voice in Afrobeats on the global stage.
A Historic Night for Tyla
The awards ceremony, broadcast Thursday night, showcased Tyla’s meteoric rise in the music industry. Nominated in eight categories, including Top R&B Artist, Top R&B Female Artist, Top R&B Album (Truth or Dare), and Top R&B Song (Water), Tyla’s talent and versatility were evident. In the Afrobeats categories, she outshone fierce competition, with her tracks Truth or Dare and Jump (a collaboration with Gunna and Skillibeng) also earning nominations.
An Emotional Acceptance Speech
Taking to the stage, Tyla expressed heartfelt gratitude to her fans and supporters, including her family and team. Her speech, filled with emotion and joy, reflected her disbelief and excitement at the moment.
“I must give a whole speech,” Tyla began, pausing to compose herself. “Yo, guys. I don’t even know this is all happening. Yo, guys. You’re bad, also you’re um, thank you. Thank you, everybody here. You guys killed it. You guys gave me energy. Thank you guys so much.”
She continued, “Thank you to Billboard. Thank you to my label, Epic Records. Thank you, Sylvia. Thank you, my Tygas. Thank you, my family. Thank you, God. Thank you, everyone. Thank you, my friends and my loved ones. Thank you, Africa.”
Chart-Topping Success of Water
Tyla’s breakout hit Water has been a global phenomenon, dominating charts and earning critical acclaim. The song’s infectious melody and captivating visuals have propelled her to international stardom, making her one of the most exciting artists in the Afrobeats genre.
Her success underscores the growing influence of African music on the global stage and highlights the dynamic evolution of Afrobeats as a genre that transcends borders.
Top Afrobeats Song Nominees
Tyla’s Water emerged victorious in the Top Afrobeats Song category, outshining these contenders:
- Adam Port & Stryv feat. Malachiii – Move
- Tems – Me & U
- Tyla – Truth or Dare
- Tyla – Water (WINNER)
- Tyla, Gunna & Skillibeng – Jump
Top Afrobeats Artist Nominees
In the Top Afrobeats Artist category, Tyla bested these acclaimed artists:
- Asake
- Burna Boy
- Rema
- Tems
- Tyla (WINNER)
Broader Success at the BBMAs
While Tyla’s wins were a highlight, the 2024 BBMAs celebrated achievements across multiple genres. Notable winners included:
- Top Artist: Taylor Swift
- Top New Artist: Chappell Roan
- Top R&B Artist: SZA
- Top Rap Artist: Drake
- Top Country Artist: Morgan Wallen
- Top Latin Artist: Bad Bunny
Tyla’s Impact on Afrobeats and Beyond
Tyla’s victories at the BBMAs are not just personal milestones; they represent a significant moment for South African music and Afrobeats as a whole. Her rise to international prominence is a testament to the genre’s expanding global reach and its ability to produce world-class talent.
Her artistry, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and pop, resonates with a diverse audience and exemplifies the genre’s versatility. Tyla’s success serves as inspiration for African artists and a reminder of the continent’s rich cultural and musical heritage.
Looking Ahead
As Tyla continues her upward trajectory, her achievements at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards are likely to open new doors for her career and further elevate African music on the world stage. With her talent, determination, and the backing of her global fanbase, Tyla is poised to redefine the boundaries of Afrobeats and inspire the next generation of artists.
