Tyla Laura Seethal, fondly known as Tyla, made history at the 2024 Grammys, clinching the coveted golden gramophone for Best African Music Performance with her sensational hit, “Water.” This groundbreaking win unfolded in the newly introduced category, solidifying Tyla’s status as a rising star in the global music scene.
Amidst fierce competition from notable Afrobeats luminaries like Burna Boy and Davido, Tyla’s infectious pop anthem proved irresistible to Grammy voters, showcasing the immense impact of her chart-topping track. The 22-year-old South African singer, overwhelmed with emotion upon receiving the award from Jimmy Jam during the Grammy’s Premiere Ceremony, exclaimed, “What the heck?! This is crazy. I never thought I’d say I won a Grammy at 22 years old.”
Tyla’s chart dominance was evident as “Water” made history by entering the Billboard Hot 100, marking the first time a South African solo artist achieved this since Hugh Masekela in 1968. Peaking at No. 7, the track solidified Tyla’s position as the highest-charting African female solo musician in Billboard history. Additionally, “Water” claimed the top spot on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs and Hip-Hop/R&B charts.
During her acceptance speech, Tyla graciously acknowledged her family, stating, “I know my mother’s crying somewhere in here.” This heartwarming moment added a personal touch to her monumental achievement.
Notably, Tyla’s triumph goes beyond personal recognition; she etches her name in history as the inaugural winner of the Best African Music Performance category. This category was established by the Academy to honor and amplify the diverse musical contributions emerging from the African continent, as emphasized by Academy President Harvey Mason Jr.
In an interview with Grammy.com, Mason expressed his vision for the Recording Academy’s future, emphasizing inclusivity and equity. “I’d love to see us be able to honor even more music from Africa and other areas of the world,” he remarked. “The future of the Recording Academy is going to build on equity. We’re not just honoring music breaking in our country — we’re celebrating music from around the world.”
Tyla’s triumph not only celebrates her individual success but also signals a promising era of recognition and appreciation for diverse musical talents from across the globe.
