The 2026 Grammy Awards have left the Afrobeats community in a state of shock as Nigeria’s biggest heavyweights—Davido, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr—all walked away empty-handed. Despite a year of global dominance and record-breaking tours, the trio fell short in their respective categories, marking a bittersweet night for the Nigerian music industry.
The biggest story of the night was South African sensation Tyla, who made history by becoming a two-time winner in the Best African Music Performance category. Her viral anthem “Push 2 Start” edged out Davido’s “With You” (feat. Omah Lay), Burna Boy’s “Love,” and Ayra Starr’s “Gimme Dat” (feat. Wizkid). Tyla’s repeat victory cements her status as a global powerhouse, but it has reignited fierce debates online about whether the Grammys are truly in touch with the pulse of the Afrobeats movement.
While the night felt like a “snub” to many fans—especially with Burna Boy also losing out in the Best Global Music Album category—the blow was softened by the legendary Fela Kuti’s posthumous honor. However, as social media erupts with “robbed” claims from the 30BG and Outsiders fanbases, one thing is clear: the road to Grammy gold remains as unpredictable as ever for Nigeria’s superstars
