When the 2026 Grammy nominations were finally announced, Africa once again took center stage. Some of the biggest and most influential musicians on the continent are represented in the Best African Music Performance category, demonstrating that Afro music is not only popular but also at the forefront of the global music scene.
Burna Boy is one of the nominees with the song “Love.” Burna Boy, who currently has over ten career Grammy nominations, including his 2021 Best Global Music Album victory, reaches yet another significant milestone. Not only that, but Burna’s most recent album, “No Signs of Weakness,” earned him a second nomination this year in the Global Album category.
After receiving his first round of nominations in 2024, Davido and Omah Lay secure a nomination with “With You,” extending his already impressive Grammy record. Following her recent global success, Ayra Starr receives another Grammy nomination for “Gimme Dat,” which features Wizkid, a Grammy veteran with two wins and numerous nominations.
Ugandan celebrity Eddy Kenzo, who was nominated in 2023, is back on the ballot for “Hope & Love” with Mehran Matin. Tyla, a South African singer who made history in 2024 when she won for “Water,” is continuing her international run with “Push 2 Start.”
The iconic Angélique Kidjo receives another nomination outside of the African Performance category, this time for Best Global Music Performance, for her performance of “Jerusalema.” Kidjo, who has received five Grammy awards and over fourteen nominations throughout her career, continues to be a potent representation of African excellence in global music.
Not only do this year’s nominees honor songs, but they also honor culture, identity, and the inexorable global impact of African music. Africa is discussed more than just in passing.
Africa is the topic of discussion.
