The 68th Annual Grammy Awards are officially around the corner, and for us in the motherland, Sunday, 1st February 2026, is the only date that matters. While the world watches the “Big Four,” we have our eyes firmly fixed on the Best African Music Performance category. It is more than just an award; it is a celebration of the sounds that have moved from our local streets to the global stage.

This year’s “Big 5” contenders are a perfect mix of seasoned giants and the “new school” leaders who are currently holding the world in a chokehold. Here is everything you need to know about the songs and the stars vying for that golden gramophone.

Gimme Dat – Ayra Starr Featuring Wizkid

The “Celestial Being” and the “Starboy” teamed up once again for “Gimme Dat,” and the results were pure magic. Released on 25th April 2025, the song samples the iconic “911” by Wyclef Jean and Mary J. Blige, blending jazzy reggae beats with sultry Afrobeats rhythms. It’s a confident, sensual track where Ayra lists exactly what she needs in a lover—peace of mind and 100% commitment—while Wizkid delivers a breezy, seasoned verse.

Ayra Starr’s journey has been nothing short of meteoric; after becoming the youngest Nigerian artist nominated for a Grammy last year, she returns with even more momentum. Wizkid, a Grammy winner himself for his contribution to Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl,” brings that veteran “Big Wiz” aura to the track, making this collaboration a formidable contender.

Love – Burna Boy

The “City Boy” himself is back in the Grammy conversation with “Love,” a standout track from his eighth studio album, “No Sign of Weakness,” released on 10th July 2025. Produced by Dre Skull, the song is a beautiful, introspective Afro-fusion piece that explores themes of loyalty, self-protection, and genuine devotion. It’s Burna Boy at his most vulnerable, trading his usual high-energy “pon di beats” for a mid-tempo, soulful reflection on who truly stands by you when the lights go out.

Burna is no stranger to the Recording Academy; this nomination brings his career total to a staggering 13 nods over seven consecutive years. Having already won Best Global Music Album in 2021 for “Twice as Tall,” he enters this race as a heavyweight veteran.

With You – Davido Featuring Omah Lay

Released on 18th April 2025 as a highlight of Davido’s fifth studio album, “5ive,” the track is a masterclass in modern Highlife. Inspired by Bright Chimezie’s 1984 hit “Because of English,” the song features a repeating guitar loop and an easy, flirtatious charm that is hard to resist. Davido actually considered scrapping the song initially, but we are so glad he didn’t.

Omah Lay’s aching delivery pairs perfectly with Davido’s tender performance, making this a fan favourite. The nomination builds on Davido’s growing Grammy momentum after his historic three-nomination run last year, while for Omah Lay, it’s another well-earned nod that reinforces his place as one of the genre’s most distinctive voices.

PUSH 2 START – Tyla

After making history as the inaugural winner of this category 2024 with “Water,” South African sensation Tyla is looking for a back-to-back victory with “PUSH 2 START.”

Released on 11th October 2024 as part of her TYLA + deluxe album, the song uses car metaphors to navigate the thrills of attraction and commitment. It’s a flawless blend of Amapiano, Pop, and R&B that has already dominated the Billboard and UK Afrobeats charts.

Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin – Hope & Love

Adding a unique, cross-cultural flavour to the category is “Hope & Love,” a collaboration between Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo and Iranian artist Mehran Matin. Released on 13th August 2025, the song is an uplifting Afrobeat anthem designed to unite hearts across borders. Featuring the joyful energy of the Masaka Kids Africana, the track is a reminder that music is a universal language that shines brightest in the darkness.

Eddy Kenzo remains a pioneer for East African music on the global stage. This isn’t his first rodeo; he made history in 2023 as the first Ugandan artist to be nominated for a Grammy. His return to the category with Mehran Matin shows that his mission to “spread love” through music is far from over.

Did You Know?

The Best African Music Performance category is relatively new. It was created in June 2023 and first awarded in 2024 to recognise recordings that utilise unique local expressions from across the continent. The Recording Academy established this dedicated space to acknowledge the massive global impact of genres like Afrobeats, Amapiano, Highlife, and Bongo Flava.

The post Burna Boy, Davido, Tyla, Ayra Starr & Eddy Kenzo: Meet the 2026 Grammy Best African Music Contenders appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Phot Credit: Davido/Instagram

Davido had more than just a good time in Brooklyn during the latest stop on his 5IVE Tour. He made it a night to remember, and the photos say it all.

He wasn’t alone either. The crowd got a surprise when American rapper and actor Fat Joe joined him on stage, followed by Victony. Backstage, Davido was seen with Ciara, who has been embracing her recent Beninese citizenship and celebrating the culture with real joy.

From performing “With You“, one of the highlights from his 5IVE album, to a string of fan favourites, Davido gave a full-on performance. The audience responded in kind, singing along and dancing through the night. It was a celebration of music, connection and the kind of live show that reminds you why concerts matter.

Now, let’s talk about what he wore. For the night, Davido stepped out in a rich golden-brown oversized fur coat that set the tone for his entrance. It was bold and unmistakably stylish. He layered it over a plain white T-shirt, keeping the rest of the look grounded and casual.

His choice of accessories added a sharp edge to the look. A chunky gold chain, dark designer sunglasses and a pair of jeans with a belt embellished with colourful stones gave it a flash of personality.

“Brooklyn set the bar! Memories made,” Davido wrote in his caption after the show. Next stop is Boston.

See photos below.

 

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The post Davido Showed Up in Style for His Brooklyn 5IVE Tour | See the Looks appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

We’re sure you’ve heard it everywhere. Davido and Omah Lay’s voices pouring out of speakers, taking over the moment as Omah Lay gently sings, “Baby the weather is getting cold / Cold inside…” before Davido follows with the unforgettable line, “Sweet Fanta Diallo / I no fit forget you o…”

And there you are, nodding your head, tapping your feet, maybe even drumming your hands against your thighs as you sing along. We wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve gotten up a few times to dance to the catchy tune.

Now there’s even more reason to move, as the video for “With You” has just dropped. In it, you’ll see both Omah Lay and Davido sharing new dance steps as they groove to the track with ease and charm.

What makes the video even more special is the appearance of the legendary Bright Chimezie. Davido sampled Chimezie’s iconic track “Because of English” on “With You” and has openly acknowledged the inspiration. Seeing the legend himself in the video is a brilliant nod to the song’s roots and cultural richness.

“With You” is a romantic Afropop number about love, longing and deep connection. It is one of the memorable tracks on Davido’s latest album, “5IVE.” The video is directed by Dammy Twitch, who brings the warmth and rhythm of the song to life.

Watch below

The post Davido & Omah Lay are Serving Romance and Rhythm in the “With You” Video appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.