The 68th Annual Grammy Awards are fast approaching, with the key date for Nigerian audiences being Sunday, February 1, 2026. While the global spotlight is on the prestigious 'Big Four' categories, our focus remains firmly on the Best African Music Performance segment, which celebrates the rich sounds emerging from our local communities and making waves internationally.
This year's lineup of nominees features a dynamic blend of established artists alongside rising stars who are captivating audiences around the world. Here’s a detailed look at the music and talents contending for this celebrated Grammy.
Gimme Dat – Ayra Starr Featuring Wizkid
The collaboration between Ayra Starr and Wizkid on the track "Gimme Dat" promises captivating results. Released on April 25, 2025, the song incorporates a sample from Wyclef Jean and Mary J. Blige's classic, "911," mixing jazzy reggae tones with sultry Afrobeats. The lyrics showcase Ayra’s desires in a relationship, centered on commitment and peace of mind, while Wizkid adds his smooth, experienced touch.
Ayra Starr’s ascent is remarkable; after becoming the youngest Nigerian Grammy nominee last year, she has returned stronger. Wizkid, a Grammy award winner for his role in Beyoncé’s "Brown Skin Girl," adds significant star power to this collaboration.
Love – Burna Boy
Returning to the Grammy scene, Burna Boy's "Love" stands out as a deeply introspective track from his eighth studio album, "No Sign of Weakness," which was released on July 10, 2025. The song, produced by Dre Skull, explores themes of dedication and loyalty in a melodic Afro-fusion style. This adds a layer of vulnerability, as Burna Boy reflects on genuine support amidst life's challenges.
This nomination marks Burna Boy's 13th Grammy nod in seven consecutive years, following his Best Global Music Album win in 2021 for "Twice as Tall."
With You – Davido Featuring Omah Lay
"With You," released April 18, 2025, is a standout track from Davido's fifth studio album, "5ive." The song revisits the essence of Highlife, leveraging a guitar loop inspired by Bright Chimezie's classic hit, "Because of English." Davido contemplated not releasing this track, yet it became a fan favorite, highlighting his chemistry with Omah Lay, whose soulful delivery complements Davido’s smooth vocals.
This nomination bolsters Davido's growing acclaim after last year’s three Grammy nominations, while Omah Lay's recognition solidifies his role as a distinctive voice in the industry.
PUSH 2 START – Tyla
Tyla aims to secure consecutive wins in the Best African Music Performance category with "PUSH 2 START," released on October 11, 2024, as part of her deluxe album, TYLA+. This song cleverly uses car metaphors to explore themes of attraction and commitment, showcasing a blend of Amapiano, Pop, and R&B;, and achieving significant success on Billboard and UK Afrobeats charts.
Hope & Love – Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin
Bringing a cross-cultural element to the competition, "Hope & Love" pairs Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo with Iranian artist Mehran Matin. Released on August 13, 2025, the track is an uplifting Afrobeat anthem, celebrating unity through music, with vibrant contributions from the Masaka Kids Africana.
Eddy Kenzo continues to be a trailblazer for East African music globally, returning to the Grammy scene after making history as the first Ugandan nominee.
Did You Know?
The Best African Music Performance category is relatively new, established in June 2023, and first awarded in 2024 to recognize recordings that embody unique local expressions from across Africa. The Recording Academy created this category to honor the significant global influence of genres such as Afrobeats, Amapiano, Highlife, and Bongo Flava.
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