A wave of excitement has swept across the African music industry as several Nigerian Afrobeats icons have earned nominations for the prestigious 2026 Grammy Awards. The Recording Academy released the official shortlist on Friday evening, unveiling a strong representation from Africa — particularly from Nigeria — across major global music categories.
Among the leading names are Davido, Burna Boy, Omah Lay, Ayra Starr, and Wizkid, who have all continued to push the boundaries of Afrobeats and global music. Their nominations highlight the steady global rise of African soundscapes and the cultural influence of Nigeria’s music industry on the world stage.
Davido and Omah Lay Earn Joint Nomination
Superstar Davido and singer-songwriter Omah Lay scored a joint nomination for their electrifying collaboration ‘With You’, which is up for Best African Music Performance. The soulful, rhythm-infused track blends Davido’s signature Afro-fusion style with Omah Lay’s smooth vocals, creating a sound that has resonated deeply with fans across continents.
The pair’s nomination adds to the growing recognition of Afrobeats as a dominant global genre. For Davido, whose fourth studio album Timeless received widespread international acclaim, the nod reinforces his position as one of Africa’s most influential music exports. Omah Lay, known for his lyrical depth and unique sonic texture, also continues to build on a remarkable career trajectory that has seen him evolve from a local sensation into a global phenomenon.
Burna Boy Continues His Grammy Legacy
Global music heavyweight Burna Boy once again made headlines with multiple nominations. Having already secured a Grammy win in 2021 for Best Global Music Album with Twice As Tall, Burna Boy returns to the competition with renewed strength. His latest album, ‘No Sign of Weakness,’ has been nominated for Best Global Music Album, reaffirming his consistency and unmatched artistry on the world stage.
In addition, Burna Boy’s hit track ‘Love’ also appears in the Best African Music Performance category. Known for his powerful storytelling and ability to blend Afrobeat rhythms with reggae, dancehall, and pop influences, Burna Boy’s music continues to bridge cultural divides and amplify African excellence worldwide.
His nomination adds another chapter to his impressive journey, which has seen him perform on some of the biggest stages globally, including sold-out concerts at Madison Square Garden and the London Stadium.
Ayra Starr and Wizkid Collaborate on a Hit
Another highlight from the nominations is ‘Gimme Dat,’ a collaborative masterpiece by Ayra Starr and Wizkid. The song’s infectious rhythm and vibrant production have earned it a nomination in the Best African Music Performance category.
For Ayra Starr, this marks a significant milestone in her young but fast-rising career. The “Sability” hitmaker, signed under Mavin Records, has gained international attention for her bold style and genre-bending sound that seamlessly merges Afrobeats, R&B, and pop.
Wizkid, one of Africa’s most decorated music stars, adds yet another Grammy nomination to his illustrious career. The Starboy Entertainment founder has consistently been at the forefront of the Afrobeats-to-the-world movement, and his work continues to inspire a new generation of African musicians.
A Celebration of African Excellence
The Best African Music Performance category, introduced to the Grammy Awards in 2024, has quickly become a defining platform for showcasing the diversity and richness of African music. This year’s lineup reflects not only Nigeria’s dominance but also the continent’s expanding influence in global entertainment.
Here is the complete list of nominees for the category:
Best African Music Performance Nominees
• Love – Burna Boy
• With You – Davido and Omah Lay
• Hope & Love – Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin
• Gimme Dat – Ayra Starr and Wizkid
• PUSH 2 START – Tyla
Ugandan superstar Eddy Kenzo also represents East Africa with his emotionally charged song ‘Hope & Love’, featuring Mehran Matin. South Africa’s Tyla, who gained massive fame for her global hit ‘Water’, earns another well-deserved nomination with ‘PUSH 2 START’.
This continental spread demonstrates how African artists are shaping new sounds and introducing unique storytelling to international audiences.
Global Music Category Highlights
Beyond the African category, the Best Global Music Album nominees showcase a vibrant mix of artists who have used their music to connect cultures and transcend borders. The list includes:
Best Global Music Album Nominees
• No Sign of Weakness – Burna Boy
• Sounds Of Kumbha – Siddhant Bhatia
• Éclairer le Monde: Light the World – Youssou N’Dour
• Mind Explosion (50th Anniversary Tour Live) – Shakti
• Chapter III: We Return To Light – Anoushka Shankar Featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar
• Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo – Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia
The presence of Youssou N’Dour, one of Africa’s most respected musical legends, further reinforces the continent’s global musical legacy. His album ‘Light the World’ combines traditional Senegalese rhythms with universal themes of unity and hope — a message that resonates deeply in today’s divided world.
The Rise of Afrobeats on the Global Stage
The nominations continue to demonstrate how African music — particularly Afrobeats — has moved from the margins of world music into the heart of global pop culture. Artists from Lagos to Johannesburg are no longer seen as regional performers but as key influencers shaping the sound of modern music.
Streaming platforms, collaborations with international stars, and the growing African diaspora audience have all contributed to this transformation. Nigerian music, once confined to local radios, now dominates playlists in London, New York, and Paris.
Looking Ahead to the Awards
As anticipation builds toward the 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony, scheduled for early next year in Los Angeles, all eyes will be on how the African nominees perform. Whether they win or not, their presence on the global stage is already a victory for African creativity, culture, and pride.
The recognition of Afrobeats and African artists at this level symbolizes a new era for the continent’s music industry — one where talent, resilience, and cultural authenticity continue to break barriers and inspire the world.
Africa Live News celebrates the success of these outstanding artists whose music continues to project Africa’s vibrant rhythms and stories across the globe.
