The 68th Annual Grammy Awards will be remembered as a definitive turning point for African music. While the continent has been making waves on the global charts for years, this year the Recording Academy finally paid its highest respect to the roots of the sound.
In a night filled with high energy and emotional tributes, the spotlight shone brightest on the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti, who made history as the first African artist to be honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
The King of Afrobeat's Institutional Reckoning
Nearly three decades after his passing in 1997, Fela Kuti’s legacy has achieved what many thought impossible during his lifetime: full recognition from the global music establishment.
Known as the "Black President," Fela was more than a musician; he was a revolutionary whose blend of jazz, funk, and traditional Yoruba rhythms—Afrobeat—became a weapon against corruption and oppression.
The award was accepted at the Special Merit Awards ceremony by his children—Yeni, Femi, and Kunle Kuti. In a moving speech, Yeni Kuti remarked, “I’m sure my father is smiling down on us... better late than never.” This honor follows the 2025 induction of his masterpiece album, Zombie, into the Grammy Hall of Fame, signaling a major shift in how African musical history is preserved on the world stage.
Tyla’s Winning Streak Continues
While Fela’s honor looked to the past, South African sensation Tyla proved that the future of African music is in very capable hands.
Tyla took home her second Grammy for Best African Music Performance for her hit single, "Push 2 Start." Having won the inaugural award in 2024 for "Water," Tyla has now become the first artist to win this category twice.
In a category packed with heavyweights like Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr, Tyla’s victory underscores the global dominance of South Africa’s Amapiano-infused pop.
"This is for every young girl in Africa who has a dream," Tyla said during her acceptance. "We aren't just joining the conversation anymore; we are leading it."
Other Notable African Moments
The 68th Grammys were a showcase of the African diaspora's diverse reach:
• Shaboozey: The Nigerian-American breakout star won Best Country Duo/Group Performance for his hit "Amen" alongside Jelly Roll. In his speech, he proudly referenced his Igbo roots and the immigrant experience.
• The "Debt" of Influence: While icons like Angelique Kidjo and Burna Boy didn't take home trophies this year, their presence in the top categories served as a reminder that African sounds are now the backbone of global pop production.
Why This Matters
For years, African artists felt like "guests" at the Grammys. The 2026 ceremony changed that narrative. By honoring Fela Kuti, the Recording Academy acknowledged that modern global music—from Afrobeats to Hip-Hop—owes a debt to the "Kalakuta Republic."
Africa didn't just show up to the Grammys this year; Africa defined them.
What do you think?
Was Fela’s Lifetime Achievement Award long overdue, or is this the perfect time to celebrate his legacy? Let us know in the comments below!