South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated singer Tyla on winning the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance for her viral global song Water.
She is the first artist to win the coveted new category, defeating Nigeria’s Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, and Asake, who were all nominated.
In an X post, Mr Ramaphosa stated that the singer has joined the ranks of famous South African artists and performers who have left an unforgettable impression on the world scene.
“@Tyllaaaaaaaa, we congratulate you and celebrate with you. “Thank you for being authentic and for flying the flag,” he said.
Woke up to the news of our very own Tyla winning the Best African Music Performance for her song ‘Water’ at the #Grammys. She is the youngest African to win such a prestigious award, adding herself to list of eminent South African artists and musicians who have made an indelible… pic.twitter.com/rNROSAuH1W
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) February 5, 2024
Last year, Water became a global summer anthem, breaking streaming records and dominating charts such as the Billboard Hot 100.
“It’s crazy! I never expected to win a Grammy at the age of 22!” Tyla exclaimed when she collected the coveted prize in the United States on Sunday night, looking stunning in a custom Versace gown.
Some Africans on social media praised Sunday’s Grammys as a watershed moment for the continent’s talent, with Tyla winning, Burna Boy performing, and South African comedian Trevor Noah presenting music’s largest event for the record fourth time.
