The world is dancing to a specific rhythm lately, and the American Music Awards is leaning all the way in. The 2026 nominations for Best Afrobeats Artist are officially out, and the lineup is a testament to how far the genre has traveled from the streets of Lagos and Accra to the global mainstage.
With the ceremony set to air live on Monday, May 25th, the competition is tighter than ever. Here is a closer look at the titans vying for the trophy this year.
The Heavyweights: Burna Boy & Wizkid
It’s hard to have a conversation about Afrobeats without these two.
• Burna Boy: The "African Giant" continues his streak of global dominance. His ability to blend dancehall, reggae, and traditional Afro-fusion has made him a perennial favorite.
• Wizkid: The "Starboy" himself remains a blueprint for crossover success. His smooth vocals and effortless style keep him at the forefront of the genre's international expansion.
The New Vanguard: Rema & Tyla
The "new school" is no longer just "new"—they are the standard.
• Rema: After the record-shattering success of "Calm Down," Rema has solidified his place as a pop icon, proving that his "Afrorave" sound has universal appeal.
• Tyla: Bringing the infectious energy of Amapiano to the Afrobeats category, the South African sensation has had a meteoric rise. Her nomination highlights the beautiful blurring of lines between regional African sounds on the global stage.
The Rising Star: Moliy
Perhaps the most exciting inclusion is Moliy. The Ghanaian-American singer-songwriter has been a breath of fresh air, known for her distinctive "wondergirl" vocals and her breakout contribution to the hit "SAD GIRLS LUV MONEY." Her nomination signals the AMAs' commitment to recognizing the next generation of genre-bending talent.
How to Watch and Vote
The power is in the hands of the fans! You can cast your vote now via VoteAMAs.com or by following @AMAs on social media.
Mark Your Calendars: > * Date: Monday, May 25
• Network: CBS
• Streaming: Paramount+
Who are you rooting for? Whether you're Team Burna or a Tyla enthusiast, this year's AMAs are shaping up to be a historic night for African music.