By Atoyebi Nike
South African singer Tyla won Favourite Afrobeats Artist at the 2024 American Music Awards (AMAs) on Monday night. The event took place at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
She beat top Nigerian stars Wizkid, Rema, Tems, and Asake to take the award. Tyla is the first South African and first woman to win the category since its debut in 2022.
Her global hit “Water” and rising popularity played a key role in the win.
“This means the world to me,” she said on stage. “To be recognized here, among legends, is a dream come true. Thank you to everyone who believed in me.”
The win sparked debate over genre identity in global music. Critics say Tyla’s sound, rooted in Amapiano, differs from Afrobeats.
She faced similar criticism after winning Best Afrobeats Video at the 2024 MTV VMAs.
“Afrobeats has opened doors,” she said. “But African music is more than that. I represent Amapiano and my culture.”
Some argue awards meant for Afrobeats should go to artists shaping that genre. They say Tyla’s music belongs in a separate category.
Despite the backlash, her achievement marks a big moment for African artists.
The night also saw Billie Eilish dominate. She won seven awards, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.
Beyoncé picked up two wins in country music, while Eminem won for the first time in 15 years.
Jennifer Lopez hosted the show. Rod Stewart received the Lifetime Achievement Award, with his children presenting it.
“I started singing in the ’60s,” Stewart said. “I didn’t want fame, just to sing. I’m grateful to still be here.”
Tyla’s win adds to her growing list of global accolades. But it also raises questions about how African genres are defined and awarded.
PHOTO CREDIT AFP
