VIDEO: “There’s A Tendency To Group All African Artists Under Afrobeats” Tyla Schools MTV For Awarding Her ‘Best Afrobeats Artist’

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Tyla, the rising South African sensation, took a bold stand after her groundbreaking win at the 2024 VMAs, where she was crowned Best Afrobeats Artist. In her victory speech, she called out global music platforms for lumping all African artists under the Afrobeats label, highlighting the rich diversity of African music. “Afrobeats has definitely opened doors, but African music is so much more than that,” Tyla said. “I come from South Africa, and I represent Amapiano and my culture.” Her win, beating out Afrobeats heavyweights like Tems, Ayra Starr, and Davido, sparked debates on whether African music professionals were involved in the decision.

Tyla praised her fellow nominees, calling the win “special but bittersweet.” She celebrated the moment for African music, yet pointed out how frustrating it is to see the entire continent’s musical output categorised into one genre. “This is a massive moment for Africa,” she said, making history as the first South African artist to claim a VMA.

The victory has ignited widespread conversations about the need for more nuanced recognition of African music’s diversity. Fans and fellow artists alike have applauded Tyla, while urging global platforms to better appreciate the continent’s vast musical landscape beyond Afrobeats.

ONE QUESTION? WHY DID SHE NOT SAY ALL THIS PRIOR TO WINNING THE AWARD?

Nevertheless, watch the moment below.

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