In case you missed it, the 2025 Grammy nominations were announced this past week, and they’ve sparked a conversation, especially around the “Best African Music Performance” category. Once again, the nominees seem to be heavily dominated by Nigerian Afrobeats artists, which has left many wondering if the Grammys are missing the full richness of African music.
Seven of the eight nominees are Nigerian artists, while the only non-African is American singer Chris Brown, who landed a nomination through his collaboration with Davido and Lojay. Given this lineup, it’s hard not to wonder: do the Grammys think African music starts and ends with Afrobeats?
Tyla’s absence from the Grammy nominations has stunned and disappointed fans. Despite an impressive year, including winning Best New Artist at other major Western awards and releasing a debut album packed with catchy tracks, she didn’t receive a single Grammy nod. Her song “Jump,” which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Afrobeats chart and still holds strong in the top ten, is the kind of hit many expected to see recognised.
This Grammy snub has raised an important question among fans: does the Academy truly understand African music? There’s no doubt that Afrobeats has made a global impact, but it’s far from the only sound Afric Africa’s amapiano, for example, is a genre that’s made massive waves worldwide. Tracks like Uncle Waffles’ Wadibusa and Kabza De Small’s Imithandazo have left an undeniable mark this year yet were notably absent from the Grammy nominations. By narrowing the “African” category to primarily Afrobeats, the Grammys seem to be squeezing the continent’s music into a single, simplified genre.
For many African artists and music fans, this lack of representation is a missed opportunity to show the true diversity and creativity that’s alive across the continent. African music is more than just a style—it’s a mix of stories, histories, and cultures that deserve global recognition.
However, Tyla made a big splash at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards held in Manchester, England, winning three prestigious awards in Best Afrobeats Act, Best African Act, and Best R&B Act. The Truth or Dare singer, who was nominated in four categories, stood out with her unique fusion of genres and her vibrant tribute to Aaliyah’s iconic 2000 VMAs look. Competing against international stars like Kehlani, SZA, and Usher, Tyla expressed gratitude and excitement during her acceptance speeches, emphasising her musical influences and pride in representing African music on a global stage.
