Nigeria’s top music stars left the 2026 Grammy Awards without taking home a trophy, despite earning nominations in two major categories at this year’s ceremony held Sunday night in Los Angeles.
Nigerian artistes were represented in the Best African Music Performance category, with Burna Boy also nominated for Best Global Music Album.
Tyla Claims Best African Music Performance
South African singer Tyla emerged winner in the Best African Music Performance category with her hit single “Push 2 Start.” She defeated a strong lineup that included:
“Love” – Burna Boy
“With You” – Davido featuring Omah Lay
“Gimme Dat” – Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid
The win marks Tyla’s second victory in the category since it was introduced in 2024, when she became the first recipient with her breakout song “Water.”
Brazilian Legends Beat Burna Boy in Global Album Category
In the Best Global Music Album category, Brazilian veterans Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia won with “Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo,” edging out Burna Boy’s nominated project “No Sign of Weakness.”
Bad Bunny and Kendrick Lamar Dominate Major Awards
The ceremony also produced historic moments in the top categories.
Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny won Album of the Year, becoming the first artiste to receive the honour for a Spanish-language album.
American rapper Kendrick Lamar was among the biggest winners of the night, taking home five awards, including Record of the Year for his collaboration with SZA.
Key Winners at the 2026 Grammys
Record of the Year: “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar ft. SZA
Album of the Year: DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS – Bad Bunny
Song of the Year: “WILDFLOWER”, Billie Eilish
Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
Best African Music Performance: “Push 2 Start”, Tyla
Best Global Music Album: Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo, Caetano Veloso & Maria Bethânia
The full list of winners spans pop, rap, rock, gospel, global and regional categories, reflecting another diverse year in world music.
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