If there is one thing about Cardi B, she certainly knows how to keep us on our toes and the crowd at her Los Angeles show just found out why. During her highly anticipated Little Miss Drama Tour, the “Bodak Yellow” rapper proved she is the ultimate professional when she transformed an accidental on-stage fall into an instant viral meme, laughing it off with the kind of grace only a Bronx queen could muster. However, the real “mic drop” moment came when she surprised the sold-out Kia Forum by bringing out South Africa’s very own golden girl, Tyla.

The energy in the arena shifted to a whole new level as the duo took to the stage to perform “Nice Guy” and “Chanel“, two standout tracks from Cardi’s record-breaking 2026 sophomore album, “Am I The Drama?.” It was a true link-up for the books, especially considering Tyla is currently basked in the glow of her recent win at the 2026 Grammy Awards, where she took home the award for Best African Music Performance.

Seeing the rap icon and the reigning Afro-pop princess share the stage felt like a beautiful bridge between global sounds, leaving the audience in a complete frenzy. From the choreography to the undeniable chemistry between the two stars, the night served as a high-profile celebration of their respective journeys on the global stage.

 

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If your body naturally starts to move the moment a Tyla song comes on, you’re not alone. There’s something about her music that skips over thinking and goes straight to motion — the kind that has you swaying in your seat, practising footwork in your room, or turning the mirror into a mini stage. Tyla makes music that demands the dance floor, and she does it without trying too hard or losing where she’s from.

Now, fresh off the news of her second Grammy win at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, it feels like the perfect moment to refresh your dance playlist. From smooth Amapiano rhythms to pop moments that still carry groove, Tyla’s sound keeps finding its way into parties, timelines and late-night car rides.

If you’re ready to update your rotation and lean fully into feel-good movement, here are 5 Tyla songs you need on your playlist right now.

Push 2 Start

The song that secured her second Grammy is a mandatory addition. With its clever car metaphors and that signature log drum rhythm, it’s the ultimate high-energy track for when you’re getting ready to head out or need a boost at the gym.

Chanel

Released as a lead single for her highly anticipated second album, “A-Pop,” “Chanel” is pure luxury in audio form. It’s an upbeat, confident anthem about being treated like the prize you are. If you’re feeling yourself, this is the soundtrack.

Jump (feat. Gunna & Skillibeng)

If your playlist needs a bit of edge, this is it. Tyla teams up with American rapper Gunna and Jamaican star Skillibeng for a track that bridges the gap between Johannesburg, Atlanta, and Kingston. It’s gritty, catchy, and guaranteed to get you moving.

Dynamite (feat. Wizkid)

A standout collaboration from her WWP project, this track features our very own Wizkid. The chemistry between the two is undeniable, creating a smooth, mid-tempo groove that is perfect for a sunset drive or a chilled weekend hang.

Water

We couldn’t leave out the classic that started it all. Even years after its release, “Water” remains the blueprint for the Popiano genre. Its breezy, rhythmic flow is timeless and still hits just as hard as the first time we heard it.

The post 5 Tyla Songs You Need on Your Playlist After Her Big Grammy Win appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles was a weekend of high emotions, historic firsts, and a reminder of Africa’s influence on the global stage. While many of our favourites were in the building, the weekend belonged to those who broke new ground and carried the culture with pride.

The weekend kicked off on a legendary note as the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti became the first African artist to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy. During the Special Merit Awards on Saturday, his children—Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa, and Femi Kuti—accepted the honour on his behalf. Yeni shared a touching moment, saying, “I’m sure my father is smiling down on us,” as they celebrated the Afrobeat pioneer’s monumental legacy.

On Sunday night, the celebrations moved to the Crypto.com Arena, where South Africa’s Tyla officially became a two-time Grammy winner. She clinched the award for Best African Music Performance for her single “Push 2 Start,” marking her second win in the category since its 2024 debut. It was a tightly contested category, with Tyla edging out an incredible lineup of talent: Burna Boy (“Love”), Davido featuring Omah Lay (“With You”), Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid (“Gimme Dat”), and Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin (“Hope & Love”).

Nigerian-American sensation Shaboozey also had a massive night, winning Best Country Duo/Group Performance for the hit “Amen“ alongside Jelly Roll. In an emotional acceptance speech, Shaboozey, who is of Igbo-Nigerian descent, paid tribute to his mother and addressed the current climate in the United States, reminding the audience that “immigrants literally built this country.”

While Angélique Kidjo, Burna Boy, and Youssou N’dour didn’t take home trophies in their respective categories this year, the presence of African excellence was felt in every corner of the room.

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It was a night of celebration for South Africa’s golden girl, Tyla, who officially clinched her second Grammy Award at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. Stepping onto the stage just days after her 24th birthday, the singer took home the trophy for Best African Music Performance for her hit, “Push 2 Start.”

This victory marks a significant milestone in Tyla’s career, as she becomes the first artist to win this specific category twice since its inception in 2024. The category was a star-studded affair this year, featuring a powerful lineup of Africa’s finest. Tyla emerged ahead of Nigeria’s Burna Boy (“Love”), Davido featuring Omah Lay (“With You”), and Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid (“Gimme Dat”), as well as Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin (“Hope & Love”).

“Push 2 Start” has been a standout track for the singer since its release on 11 October 2024. The song was introduced as a lead single for “TYLA +,” the deluxe edition of her self-titled debut album. Produced by Sammy Soso, Ari PenSmith, and Mocha, the track is a masterclass in the Popiano genre, a seamless fusion of Amapiano, Pop, and R&B that has become Tyla’s signature sound.

The song’s journey to the Grammy stage began with a viral tease at the 2024 MTV VMAs, followed by a high-profile music video directed by Aerin Moreno, which premiered in November 2024. Its success on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart and the UK Afrobeats Singles Chart throughout late 2024 and 2025 set the stage for this eventual Grammy recognition.

 

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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.

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South African star Tyla brought striking visual energy to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon with a performance of her track, “CHANEL.” Stepping away from a typical stage setup, she performed from inside a massive, glossy red high-heeled shoe — a playful yet commanding prop that mirrored the bold confidence of the set.

That same confidence carried through to her look. Tyla wore a simple black bralette paired with a hand-crocheted, netted mini skirt in vibrant red with pale blue accents. The outfit was elevated with layered strands of pearls, coral beads, and metallic necklaces, creating a rich mix of ceremonial references and modern styling. She finished the ensemble with black strappy heels, while her hair was styled in sleek cornrows that flowed into a soft bob.

As the performance unfolded, the studio audience stayed fully locked in, following every beat of the choreography and the tightly curated set. The intimate yet high-energy moment ended on a celebratory note, with warm applause from the crowd and Jimmy Fallon stepping on stage to join Tyla and mark the moment.

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The nominations for the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards are officially here, and it is a massive moment for African music on the global stage. Set to take place live from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Thursday, 26 March, the ceremony will celebrate the most-played songs and artists from the past year while giving us a look at what is coming next.

This year, the spotlight is firmly on our very own stars. Ayra Starr, Tyla, and Moliy have all secured spots in the “World Artist of the Year” category. They are joined in that category by global heavyweights Jackson Wang and JO1.

Ghanaian breakout star Moliy is having a particularly historic run. She has become the most-nominated African artist at this year’s awards with three major nods. Aside from “World Artist of the Year,” she is up for “Best New Artist (Hip-Hop)” and “Best Music Video” for the remix of her hit, Shake It to the Max (FLY). The track, which features Shenseea, Skillibeng, and Silent Addy, became a global fixture in 2025, topping the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats chart and becoming the most Shazamed song of the year.

The nominations also feature big names like Taylor Swift, who leads with nine nominations, followed closely by Sabrina Carpenter, Bad Bunny, and Alex Warren. Shaboozey is also in the mix with nominations for “Song of the Year” and “Country Song of the Year” for his hit “Good News.”

For the fans, there is plenty of room to get involved. Several categories are socially voted, including “Best Music Video,” where you can support Moliy’s collaboration. Voting is open now and will run until 19 March, giving everyone a chance to help decide who takes home the trophy in Los Angeles this March.

See the full list of nominees below:

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The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards took over the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, over the weekend, and as always, music’s biggest stars brought fashion moments worth talking about. Hosted by LL Cool J, the night celebrated some of the year’s most-watched music videos and saw icons like Busta Rhymes and Mariah Carey — this year’s Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award recipient — take centre stage.

But before the awards were handed out, the red carpet set the tone. This year’s fashion leaned into bold silhouettes, nostalgic nods and experimental styling choices, proving the VMAs are still the place for risk-taking.

Love Island’s Olandria Carthen was a vision in a vibrant cherry-red bustier bodysuit with a sheer mesh train that flowed dramatically behind her. Rapper GloRilla kept things playful in a plaid top and blazer by Helen Anthony, paired with a mini skirt, frilly white socks and black patent heels for a school-girl-meets-streetwear twist.

Tyla, known for her ability to surprise on the carpet, tapped into vintage luxury with a Chanel Spring/Summer 1993 archival top, styled with layered gold chains and sleek black pumpse. Ciara’s Schiaparelli look from the Spring/Summer 2025 ready-to-wear collection offered a nod to Sporty Spice with its high neck, mini skirt and bold red finish.

Afrobeats star Ayra Starr matched the buzz around her new single “Hot Body” in a daring, strappy black jumpsuit, paired with a short pixie cut, glittering nose strip, stacked bangles and towering platform heels, a look that felt both futuristic and playful.

From vintage fashion moments to experimental styling, the VMAs once again reminded us why it remains a staple in music and fashion culture.

Keep scrolling for more of the top looks from this year’s show.

Olandria

 

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South African star Tyla has bagged her second consecutive Best Afrobeats award at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), winning for her hit single Push 2 Start. The awards ceremony, held on Sunday at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, marked another milestone for the 23-year-old singer, who first won the category in 2024 with her breakout track Water.

Tyla edged out a competitive line-up of nominees, including Nigerian heavyweights Asake (Active), Burna Boy featuring Travis Scott (TaTaTa), Rema (Baby, Is It A Crime), Tems featuring Asake (Get It Right), Wizkid featuring Brent Faiyaz (Piece of My Heart), and Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea (Shake It to the Max (Fly) [Remix]). Although “Push 2 Start” was also nominated for Best Choreography, it missed out on that win.

Adding to her winning night, Tyla made a bold fashion statement at the event, walking the red carpet in a striking vintage Chanel dress from the ’90s.

Beyond Afrobeats, the night also spotlighted a mix of today’s chart-toppers and music icons. Lady Gaga led the winners’ circle with four awards, including Artist of the Year, while Ariana Grande claimed Video of the Year for Brighter Days Ahead and presented the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award to Mariah Carey. Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet earned Album of the Year, and Busta Rhymes was honoured with the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award.

The 2025 VMAs, broadcast live for the first time on CBS, also introduced a Latin Icon Award for Ricky Martin, adding to a night that celebrated global artistry and music’s evolving cultural landscape.

See the full list of winners below

Artist of the Year

Bad Bunny
Beyoncé
Kendrick Lamar
Lady Gaga — WINNER
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd

Song of the Year

Alex Warren – ‘Ordinary’
Billie Eilish – ‘Birds of a Feather’
Doechii – ‘Anxiety’
Ed Sheeran – ‘Sapphire’
Gracie Abrams – ‘I Love You, I’m Sorry’
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – ‘Die With a Smile’
Lorde – ‘What Was That’
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’ — WINNER
Tate McRae – ‘Sports Car’
The Weeknd & Playboi Carti – ‘Timeless’

Best New Artist

Alex Warren — WINNER
Ella Langley
Gigi Perez
Lola Young
Sombr
The Marías

MTV Push Performance of the Year

Ayra Starr – ‘Last Heartbreak Song’
Damiano David – ‘Next Summer’
Dasha – ‘Bye Bye Bye’
Gigi Perez – ‘Sailor Song’
Jordan Adetunji – ‘Kehlani’
Katseye – ‘Touch’ — WINNER
Lay Bankz – ‘Graveyard’
Leon Thomas – ‘Yes It Is’
Livingston – ‘Shadow’
Mark Ambor – ‘Belong Together’
Role Model – ‘Sally, When the Wine Runs Out’
Shaboozey – ‘A Bar Song (Tipsy)’

Best Collaboration

Bailey Zimmerman & Luke Combs – ‘Backup Plan’ (Stagecoach Official Music Video)
Kendrick Lamar & SZA – ‘Luther’
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – ‘Die With a Smile’ — WINNER
Post Malone ft. Blake Shelton – ‘Pour Me a Drink’
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’
Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – ‘Sunset Blvd’

Best Pop

Alex Warren – ‘Ordinary’
Ariana Grande – ‘Brighter Days Ahead’ — WINNER
Ed Sheeran – ‘Sapphire’
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – ‘Die With a Smile’
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Manchild’

Best Hip-Hop

Doechii – ‘Anxiety’ — WINNER
Drake – ‘Nokia’
Eminem ft. Jelly Roll – ‘Somebody Save Me’
Glorilla ft. Sexyy Red – ‘Whatchu Kno About Me’
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’
LL Cool J ft. Eminem – ‘Murdergram Deux’
Travis Scott – ‘4×4’

Best Pop Artist

Ariana Grande
Charli XCX
Justin Bieber
Lorde
Miley Cyrus
Sabrina Carpenter — WINNER
Tate McRae

Video of the Year

Ariana Grande – ‘Brighter Days Ahead’ –WINNER
Billie Eilish – ‘Birds of a Feather’
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – ‘Die With a Smile’
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Manchild’
The Weeknd & Playboi Carti – ‘Timeless’

Best R&B

Chris Brown – ‘Residuals’
Leon Thomas & Freddie Gibbs – ‘Mutt (Remix)’
Mariah Carey – ‘Type Dangerous’ –WINNER
PartyNextDoor – ‘No Chill’
Summer Walker – ‘Heart of a Woman’
SZA – ‘Drive’
The Weeknd & Playboi Carti – ‘Timeless’

Best Alternative

Gigi Perez – ‘Sailor Song’
Imagine Dragons – ‘Wake Up’
Lola Young – ‘Messy’
MGK & Jelly Roll – ‘Lonely Road’
Sombr – ‘Back to Friends’ — WINNER
The Marías – ‘Back to Me’

Best Rock

Coldplay – ‘All My Love’ — WINNER
Evanescence – ‘Afterlife’
Green Day – ‘One Eyed Bastard’
Lenny Kravitz – ‘Honey’
Linkin Park – ‘The Emptiness Machine’
Twenty One Pilots – ‘The Contract’

Best Latin

Bad Bunny – ‘Baile Inolvidable’
J Balvin – ‘Rio’
Karol G – ‘Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido’
Peso Pluma – ‘La Patrulla’
Rauw Alejandro & Romeo Santos – ‘Khé?’
Shakira – ‘Soltera’ — WINNER

Best K-Pop

Aespa – Whiplash’
Jennie – ‘Like Jennie’
Jimin – ‘Who’
Jisoo – ‘Earthquake’
Lisa ft. Doja Cat & Raye – ‘Born Again’ — WINNER
Stray Kids – ‘Chk Chk Boom’
Rosé – ‘Toxic Till the End’

Best Afrobeats

Asake & Travis Scott – ‘Active’
Burna Boy ft. Travis Scott – ‘TaTaTa’
Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea – ‘Shake It to the Max (Fly) (Remix)’
Rema – ‘Baby (Is It A Crime)’
Tems ft. Asake – ‘Get It Right’
Tyla – ‘Push 2 Start’ — WINNER
Wizkid ft. Brent Faiyaz – ‘Piece of My Heart’

Best Country

Chris Stapleton – ‘Think I’m in Love With You’
Cody Johnson & Carrie Underwood – ‘I’m Gonna Love You’
Jelly Roll – ‘Liar’
Lainey Wilson – ‘4x4xU’
Megan Moroney – ‘Am I Okay?’ — WINNER
Morgan Wallen – ‘Smile’

Best Album

Bad Bunny – ‘Debí Tirar Más Fotos’
Kendrick Lamar – ‘GNX’
Lady Gaga – ‘Mayhem’
Morgan Wallen – ‘I’m the Problem’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Short n’ Sweet’ — WINNER
The Weeknd – ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’

Best Long Form Video

Ariana Grande – ‘Brighter Days Ahead’ — WINNER
Bad Bunny – ‘Debí Tirar Más Fotos’
Damiano David – ‘Funny Little Stories’
Mac Miller – ‘Balloonerism’
Miley Cyrus – ‘Something Beautiful’
The Weeknd – ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’

Video for Good

Burna Boy – ‘Higher’
Charli XCX – ‘Guess’ ft. Billie Eilish — WINNER
Doechii – ‘Anxiety’
Eminem ft. Jelly Roll – ‘Somebody Save Me’
Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – ‘Younger and Hotter Than Me’
Zach Hood ft. Sasha Alex Sloan – ‘Sleepwalking’

Best Direction

Ariana Grande – ‘Brighter Days Ahead’
Charli XCX – ‘Guess’ ft. Billie Eilish
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’
Lady Gaga – ‘Abracadabra’ — WINNER
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Manchild’

Best Art Direction

Charli XCX – ‘Guess’ ft. Billie Eilish
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’
Lady Gaga – ‘Abracadabra’ — WINNER
Lorde – ‘Man of the Year’
Miley Cyrus – ‘End of the World’
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’

Best Cinematography

Ariana Grande – ‘Brighter Days Ahead’
Ed Sheeran – ‘Sapphire’
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’ — WINNER
Lady Gaga – ‘Abracadabra’
Miley Cyrus – ‘Easy Lover’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Manchild’

Best Editing

Charli XCX – ‘Guess’ ft. Billie Eilish
Ed Sheeran – ‘Sapphire’
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’
Lady Gaga – ‘Abracadabra’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Manchild’
Tate McRae – ‘Just Keep Watching’ — WINNER

Best Choreography

Doechii – ‘Anxiety’ — WINNER
FKA twigs – ‘Eusexua’
Kendrick Lamar – ‘Not Like Us’
Lady Gaga – ‘Abracadabra’
Tyla – ‘Push 2 Start’
Zara Larsson – ‘Pretty Ugly’

Best Visual Effects

Ariana Grande – ‘Brighter Days Ahead’
Lady Gaga – ‘Abracadabra’
Rosé & Bruno Mars – ‘Apt.’
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Manchild’ — WINNER
Tate McRae – ‘Just Keep Watching’
The Weeknd – ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’

 

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South African singer and pop sensation Tyla is heading to Asia this November, and it’s looking like a celebration of rhythm, dance and everything in between.

The Grammy winner just announced her Tyla Asia Tour, running from 11 November to 5 December, with stops in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Manila, and Singapore.

The tour comes hot on the heels of her latest EP, “We Wanna Party,” a four-track project that invites you to let loose, vibe out, and just enjoy the music. From the smooth bounce of “Dynamite” featuring Wizkid, to the catchy “Mr Media,” introspective “Is It” and ethereal “Bliss,” Tyla is clearly in her bag—and having fun while at it.

“Party w me in ASIAAA!!!” she wrote on Instagram. If you’re in any of those cities, it might just be your turn to catch the Tyla magic live.

 

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Been playing Tyla and Wizkid’s latest track “Dynamite” on repeat? Then you have to see the music video.

On “Dynamite”, Tyla and Wizkid take turns expressing a magnetic pull between them, weaving a narrative around rhythm, movement and undeniable chemistry.

Tyla opens with control and confidence, singing, “Why don’t you bring it, come my way? Hold me ’round my waist.” Wizkid answers with effortless charm: “Your body bang like dynamite.” The back-and-forth feels like a conversation, giving the song a playful yet intimate energy.

The video keeps it simple but charged. With just Tyla and Wizkid on screen, there’s no need for flashy scenes. The two artists move, vibe, and lock eyes—drawing us into the world they’re singing about. Watch the video below.

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South African sensation Tyla has joined forces with Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Wizkid for a new track titled “Dynamite.” The collaboration brings together two of Africa’s most distinctive voices, blending Tyla’s smooth, playful delivery with Wizkid’s laid-back flow.

On “Dynamite,” Tyla and Wizkid trade lines that echo a shared attraction, building a narrative around rhythm, movement, and the pull of undeniable chemistry. Tyla sings about taking control of the pace—“Why don’t you bring it, come my way? Hold me ’round my waist”—while Wizkid responds with a mix of charm and certainty, declaring, “Your body bang like dynamite.” The back-and-forth creates a conversational energy, making the track feel both intimate and lively.

The production leans into Afrobeats and Amapiano with a steady, hypnotic groove, giving Tyla’s soft yet assertive vocals room to glide while Wizkid adds his touch of warmth and melody. Lyrically, the song isn’t just about dance, it’s about connection, the unspoken conversation between two people drawn to each other.

The collaboration feels natural, almost inevitable, as both artists share a knack for making Afrobeats sound inviting, modern, and deeply personal.

Watch the lyric video below

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Tyla turns up the heat with “Is It,” a sleek, rhythm-heavy track that lingers in the space between desire and restraint. Known for pairing sultry vocals with striking visuals, the Grammy-winning star dives deep into the thrill of attraction and the questions that come with it. This time, she’s not just singing about what-if feelings, she’s dancing through them too.

At its core, “Is It” explores flirtation — that magnetic pull between two people unsure of their next move but unable to look away. In her soft and confessional tone, Tyla sings about emotional boundaries, longing, and the thrill of not having all the answers. “Is it wrong that I wanna get right with you?” she asks over a slick, pulsating beat that reflects the tension in her voice. The lyrics combine confidence with vulnerability, capturing a woman who knows her power but still yearns for clarity in the chaos.

Alongside the release, Tyla unveiled a captivating music video that brings the song’s energy to life. Surrounded by backup dancers, she performs a series of fluid, synchronized choreographed steps that echo the track’s emotional movement. Each moment on screen reinforces her poise and control, even as the lyrics hint at uncertainty.

“Is It” follows the success of her single “Bliss” and offers another glimpse into her creative evolution.

The post Tyla Dances Through Longing in Her New Single “Is It” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Wizkid and Tyla, two of the biggest African music stars in the world right now, join forces for an all-out banger of a collaboration on “DYNAMITE.”

The new single, built on a bouncy bass line and syncopated drums, sees the Nigerian and South African music superstars blending their vocals perfectly as they trade sultry verses over the beat.

The new collaboration is sure to be a late contender for song of the summer, as we can see this one playing on dance floors on both sides of the Atlantic for months to come.

“DYNAMITE” features on WWP, a four-track bundle of songs Tyla has just dropped, which also features the previously released “IS IT” and “BLISS,” as well as another new track, “MR. MEDIA.”

“When I thought of doing a mixtape called ‘WWP,’ I went back to all my old demos and I remembered the Wiz one,” Tyla had previously mentioned at one of her London concerts. “And it was still good, like, after three years! I just told him, ‘Let’s finish it because I want to drop it.’”

So, “DYNAMITE” has been around for a minute, but it still plays like a fresh banger.

Listen to Wizkid and Tyla’s “DYNAMITE” and check out the full WWP bundle below.

South African star Tyla and Nigerian pop sensation Ayra Starr will join a high-profile lineup at this year's Global Citizen Festival, set to take place on September 27 in New York City's Central Park. The event will be headlined by The Weeknd and Shakira, and hosted by long-time Global Citizen ambassador Hugh Jackman.

The festival continues Global Citizen's mission to end extreme poverty and drive action on global issues. This year, the campaign is focused on providing energy access for one million people on the African continent, ensuring quality education for 30,000 children worldwide, and protecting 30 million hectares of the Amazon rainforest. The festival will also push to recruit 40,000 volunteers across New York City.

Tyla, who recently won a Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance, is riding high after a breakout year that saw her single "Water" become a global hit. Her appearance at the Global Citizen Festival marks another significant milestone in her growing international career.

Ayra Starr, one of Nigeria's most prominent voices in the new wave of Afrobeats, will also take the stage. Known for her chart-topping hits like "Rush" and her boundary-pushing style, the artist continues to gain traction across global markets. Both artists represent a younger generation of African talent reaching broader audiences while staying grounded in their cultural roots.

Their participation in the festival reflects Global Citizen's growing attention to Africa as a central part of its advocacy. One of the campaign's core goals this year is to help bring clean and affordable energy to communities across the continent. Through its Scaling Up Renewables in Africa campaign, Global Citizen plans to raise $1.5 billion to train 50,000 young workers in solar installation, grid maintenance, and other essential energy services. The initiative could provide reliable electricity to over a million people, while also supporting jobs and reducing emissions.

In a statement, Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans said: "Ending extreme poverty is within our reach – but only if we come together to ensure governments and corporations deliver on their promises: scaling up renewable energy, protecting the Amazon, and investing in education for the next generation."

Tickets to the festival are free and can be earned by taking action on Global Citizen's app or website. These include signing petitions, emailing world leaders, or volunteering time to local causes.

Since its inception, Global Citizen has helped secure $49 billion in commitments, positively impacting the lives of more than a billion people. With artists like Tyla and Ayra Starr on board, the 2025 edition brings Africa even closer to the heart of this global movement.

Tyla had a big night at the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, and not just because she left the stage covered in slime. The South African pop star hosted the event and won Favourite Global Music Star, joining a long list of artists who’ve used this award show to embrace the chaos and have fun with it.

The event, held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, marked her first time hosting a major international awards show. She admitted the whole thing felt surreal. Years ago, she auditioned for Nickelodeon. This time, she was centre stage. “It’s crazy how things come around,” she said. “I just hope I only get a little drizzle of slime.” That didn’t quite happen.

Tyla kicked things off with a huge dance-filled opener celebrating the songs of summer. Benny Blanco was on the decks, dancers filled the stage, and Smurfette made a surprise appearance. The vibe was all about joy, movement, and having a good time.

When her name was called halfway through the night, she looked genuinely moved. “This means the world to me — to represent Africa on a global stage and be recognised by all you amazing kids out there… wow,” she said. “Thank you for believing in me and dancing with me. Africa to the world.”

 

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Ayra Starr has won her first BET award after clinching the highly coveted Best International Act Award. The Afrobeats star beat out strong competition, which included Mavin Records labelmate Rema, last year's winner Tyla, Ghanaian maverick Black Sherif, and Uncle Waffles, among others.

The win was well celebrated by multiple sections of the homebound and international audience, as Ayra Starr has often been nominated for top international awards, including the BET and Grammys, but had previously come second to other artists. This feels like a deserved win, especially considering the quietly purposeful year Starr has been having. A few weeks ago, she performed at a New Balance event, and her two singles, the Valentine anthem "All The Love" and the Wizkid-featured "Gimme Dat," have been doing very well on the charts.

As expected, Ayra's BET nod has opened up a flurry of conversations. One of those is Jay-Z's Roc Nation congratulating Ayra Starr via their X account. This move has sparked speculation about whether the label has signed the Nigerian star or has some ongoing business in the background.

It is known that since the 2010s, Mavin CEO Don Jazzy has maintained a connection with his Roc Nation counterpart, with Jay-Z reportedly sending members of his team, including the rapper Jay Electronica, to scout for Nigerian talent. This visit also resulted in a song.

A more pressing commentary on Ayra's BET win is that her award was presented to her backstage despite her presence at the event, which was held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. People have noted how Wizkid once criticized international award shows for their reluctance to appreciate African acts on the same stages as their international colleagues, an act the Afrobeats veteran labeled as "rubbish."

Ayra Starr has also insisted on being properly recognized for her work, criticizing Nigeria's premier music awards, the Headies, in 2023 for awarding her Best Female Act after the event had concluded. "We didn't deserve such nonchalance!" she wrote in a post on X afterward. It remains to be seen how she will respond to BET's action, but such actions should have no place in the music industry, especially in a globalized scene that owes its success to the efforts of players from around the world.

Beyond Ayra's win, Africa had further reason to celebrate as the Amapiano women DJ duo TxC snagged the coveted Best New International Act, joining their respected South African forebears like Black Coffee and Sho Madjozi who have won the BET in previous years.

Cynthia Erivo, the British actor of Nigerian descent, was also awarded Best Actress, cementing her place as one of the faces of contemporary Black cinema. Erivo has had a phenomenal year, earning critical acclaim and multiple prestigious nominations for her powerhouse performance as Elphaba in the blockbuster musical "Wicked," including Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA, SAG, and Critics' Choice nominations for Best Actress.

OkayAfrica was on the ground, capturing the energy and excitement of African talent on the red carpet. We spoke with several of the continent's brightest stars.

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British Sudanese sensation Elmiene gave us an exclusive moment before his beautiful performance on the BET stage.

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The duo TxC was excited to be there and wished that everyone could experience the energizing atmosphere. “It is crazy! Being here, seeing everybody, the atmosphere … everything that is happening right now. I feel like everybody should experience this,” one of them tells OkayAfrica.

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Ghana's Black Sherif shared with us the exact moment he learned about his nomination.

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Buju Banton, a towering figure in reggae, also took time to connect.

Ready for some music video goodness? Tyla is back with the visuals for her latest single, “Bliss”, released shortly after her stunning appearance at the Met Gala.

“Bliss” is a tender, emotionally rich love song that captures the intensity of a connection that feels both grounding and uplifting. Tyla pours her heart into lyrics about a love that brings calm, clarity, and a deep sense of belonging — the kind of love that wraps around you like peace.

It’s a gentle reflection on what it means to be truly seen, to feel safe in someone’s presence, and how quiet, steady love can be the most transformative of all.

The video brings this feeling to life beautifully, with Tyla’s expressive vocals, raw emotion, and graceful movement painting a picture of intimacy and vulnerability. Each frame mirrors the song’s quiet power and emotional depth.

Watch the video below.

The post Step into Tyla’s World of Soft Love in “Bliss” Music Video appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

South African pop sensation Tyla has released her much-anticipated single Bliss, marking her first solo drop since the deluxe edition of her self-titled debut album in October 2024. The track, produced by NOVA WAV and Sir Nolan, serves as the lead single for her upcoming sophomore album, which Tyla hinted will showcase a fresh sound while retaining her core identity. Following her global breakout with Water in 2023 and recent features like the Show Me Love remix with WizTheMc, which hit No. 11 on Billboard Global Excl. US, Bliss arrives amid high expectations, fueled by Tyla’s Coachella 2025 preview and her stunning Met Gala appearance on May 5.

Bliss is a smouldering Afro-pop ballad that intertwines R&B’s emotional depth with amapiano’s euphoric undertones, exploring the transcendent power of love. Tyla’s lyrics, like “I don’t wanna be in the world without you / Baby, I don’t wanna let out my sight,” reflect an all-encompassing desire to stay connected, while the chorus—“You take me to bliss / Never felt a love like this / Never found it, never found it”—captures the euphoric escape love offers. Her vocals glide over a rich, melodic soundscape, with lines such as “Let my smile bring you peace of mind / Burnin’ desire when you throw your arms all around me” evoking a spiritual and physical closeness. The track’s ethereal vibe is amplified by its visual rollout, featuring Tyla with angelic wings, a motif that first appeared in her April 29 teaser and aligns with the song’s theme of transcendence.

The single’s release follows a strategic buildup, starting with a Coachella performance on April 18, where Tyla debuted the track to an electrified crowd, and a pre-save campaign that sent fans into a frenzy. Social media buzz has been intense, with listeners calling it a “summer vibe” and praising its “poppy” energy, suggesting Tyla’s evolution into a more diverse soundscape. The song’s title also ties into her Erewhon smoothie, Bliss by Tyla, with proceeds supporting 18twenty8, a South African non-profit empowering young women—a nod to her commitment to social impact. With Bliss, Tyla continues to blend her Johannesburg roots with global appeal, delivering a track that feels deeply personal and universally resonant, setting the stage for her next chapter.

Listen to Bliss here.

The post Tyla captures the weightlessness of love with 'Bliss' appeared first on NotjustOk.

Fresh from the Met Gala, where her vintage look is still on everyone’s lips, Tyla has followed up with the release of a new single, “Bliss.”

“Bliss“ is a gentle and emotionally rich love song that captures the intensity of a connection that feels both grounding and uplifting. Tyla sings about the kind of love that brings calm, clarity, and a deep sense of belonging.

The chorus — “You take me to bliss / Never felt a love like this” — speaks to the joy of discovering something rare and deeply moving. There’s comfort and passion in equal measure, with lines like “I discovered wholeness / When you look me in my eyes” suggesting a love that brings healing and renewal.

Playful metaphors such as “You’re the Coke to my Hennessy” hint at effortless chemistry, while the lyric “I don’t wanna be in the world without you” highlights the emotional pull at the heart of the song.

“Bliss“ is a reflection on the beauty of feeling seen and safe in someone else’s presence. A song about the quiet power of love that transforms.

Listen below.

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