Tag Archives: Afrobeats

MUSIC, NEWS

Tyla’s Historic Wins at MTV EMAs: Celebrates Afrobeats Influence

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South African Singer Triumphs in Best Afrobeats, Best African Act, and Best R&B Categories

South African singer Tyla made headlines at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) by securing three major titles: Best Afrobeats, Best African Act, and Best R&B. This impressive feat saw her surpass notable African artists, including Ayra Starr, DBN Gogo, Diamond Platnumz, and TitoM & Yuppe.

Tyla Acknowledges Afrobeats’ Impact on African Music

In her acceptance speech, Tyla expressed gratitude for the influence of Afrobeats on her music journey. “Thank you to Afrobeats,” she said. “It has opened many doors for African music.” Her recognition of Afrobeats highlights the genre’s global impact, which has propelled African sounds onto international stages. Tyla’s music, though rooted in South African Amapiano, incorporates Afrobeats influences, as seen in her hit single “Water.”

A Continuing Streak of Recognition

This achievement follows Tyla’s previous win at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), where she also honored her Amapiano roots. Despite her primary genre, Tyla’s embrace of Afrobeats has broadened her reach and earned her critical acclaim, particularly with the success of “Water,” a track that fuses South African and West African musical elements.

Beating Out Top African Talent

Tyla’s success at the EMAs is especially noteworthy given the strength of her competitors. In both the VMAs and EMAs, she triumphed over prominent Nigerian artists such as Asake, Rema, Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Tems. Her wins underscore her growing influence in African and global music scenes.

A Landmark Year for African Music

Tyla’s victories at the MTV EMAs mark a significant moment for African music, highlighting the genre-blending approach that is making African artists a force in global pop culture. As Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other African genres continue to resonate worldwide, Tyla’s success symbolizes the cultural shift that is bringing African sounds to the forefront of the music industry.

With more artists blending genres and cultures, the future of African music on the world stage looks brighter than ever.

MUSIC, NEWS

Ayra Starr Dismisses Comparisons with Tyla, Emphasizes Unity in African Music

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Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has addressed the ongoing comparisons between herself and South African singer Tyla, asserting that the talk does not affect her or their friendship. Speaking candidly in a recent interview with BBC Radio 1Xtra, Starr emphasized the importance of unity within the African music industry as the genre gains international traction.

“Tyla Is My Homegirl”: Ayra Starr Stands by Friendship

In her interview, Ayra Starr spoke warmly about her relationship with Tyla, describing her as a close friend and confidant. “Tyla is my homegirl, that’s my G,” she said. Starr made it clear that the comparisons circulating on social media and in the press do not impact her view of their friendship, adding, “That doesn’t bother me at all. I don’t care about all of that. Less noise, more music.”

Fostering Unity in Afrobeats and African Music

Starr used the platform to encourage collaboration over competition among African artists, particularly as African music, including Afrobeats, gains global recognition. She urged fans and industry insiders to support one another, saying, “Let’s support each other…afrobeats and African music is about to take over the world, and we have to come together to be able to do that. There’s no need for comparisons.”

Grammy Recognition for Both Artists

Ayra Starr and Tyla were both nominated in the Best African Music Performance category at the 66th Grammy Awards, a milestone highlighting their international success. Though Tyla ultimately took home the award, Starr’s positive response underscores her commitment to celebrating the success of fellow African artists.

As Afrobeats and African music continue to rise on the global stage, Ayra Starr’s comments reflect a spirit of unity that is becoming increasingly essential in pushing the genre forward.

LIFESTYLE

Fans Stay Awake for Wizkid’s Midnight Release: “Make We Calm Down Small”

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Anticipation Builds for New Music from Afrobeats Star

Afrobeats superstar, Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, sparked excitement among his fans after hinting that he would release a track from his highly anticipated *Morayo* album on October 1, 2024. The Nigerian Independence Day became even more special for his fans, as many eagerly stayed up past midnight awaiting the release.

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Midnight Anticipation Turns to Speculation

As the clock struck midnight, fans flooded social media, expressing their eagerness for new music from the Essence crooner. Minutes passed with no sign of the song, leading some fans to speculate that the release date might have been postponed. Others wondered whether Wizkid, known for his playful persona, was merely teasing his audience.

One fan humorously urged others to stay patient, saying, “Make we calm down small.” Despite the uncertainty, fans continued to show excitement and support for the singer.

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Tribute to Late Mother Inspires New Album

The upcoming *Morayo* album holds deep significance for Wizkid. The 34-year-old Grammy award-winning artist revealed that the project is dedicated to his late mother, who passed away on August 18, 2023. Describing her as “the love of his life,” Wizkid’s emotional connection to the album has further fueled fan anticipation.

As fans wait for official confirmation on the release, the *Morayo* album is already set to be one of Wizkid’s most personal and heartfelt works yet.

MUSIC, NEWS

2baba Celebrates 48th Birthday

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Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, celebrates his birthday today, September 18, 1975. The Nigerian singer, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist has left an indelible mark on Africa’s music scenene.

Renowned for his vocal prowess, profound lyrics, and enduring career, 2Baba is hailed as one of Africa’s musical icons. His solo debut album, Face2Face, featuring the hit “African Queen,” revolutionized Nigerian pop music in the 2000s, garnering widespread acclaim across the continent and beyond.

Having claimed the inaugural MTV EMA Best African Act award in 2005, 2Baba stands as one of Nigeria’s most decorated musicians, boasting a legacy of accolades that solidify his status as a trailblazer in the industry.