Tyla’s Groundbreaking VMA Win for “Water” Marks a New Era for South African Music
South African pop star Tyla wins the Best Afrobeats Video at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards for her hit “Water,” making her the first South African artist to achieve this honor.
Tyla Makes History as First South African to Win VMA for “Water”
South African pop star Tyla has made history by becoming the first South African artist to win an MTV Video Music Award (VMA). On Wednesday night at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, Tyla was awarded the 2024 VMA for Best Afrobeats, solidifying her position as a rising global music sensation.
Her hit single “Water,” the track that earned her this monumental win, has taken the world by storm, with over 230 million views on YouTube and almost 800 million streams on Spotify. Tyla’s music video for “Water” showcases her unique talent and Afro-pop fusion, captivating audiences worldwide and cementing her place in the international music scene.
Tyla’s award marks a milestone for South African artists on the global stage, as she becomes the first artist from the country to be recognized at the MTV VMAs. Her victory also reflects the growing influence of Afrobeats in global music, with the genre expanding far beyond its African roots and gaining immense popularity across continents.
Tyla’s Memorable Acceptance Speech
During her acceptance speech, Tyla kept the crowd entertained with her light-hearted humor. As she held up her trophy, she joked, “You guys know me and holding awards, yoh hai. I’m not strong enough.” To add to the moment, she asked American rapper Lil Nas X, who was standing next to Halle Bailey, to hold the award for her.
Tyla then took a moment to thank the people who have supported her journey, including MTV, her dedicated fans (whom she lovingly calls her Tygers), her hardworking team, and God. She expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and love she’s received from around the world, calling the win a dream come true.
The Rise of Tyla and the Global Afrobeats Movement
Tyla’s success is a testament to the growing international appeal of Afrobeats, a genre that blends African rhythms with global pop influences. The genre has exploded in popularity over the last decade, thanks to the influence of artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and now, Tyla.
Her victory at the 2024 VMAs signals a broader recognition of African music on the world stage, a proud moment for both Tyla and South Africa. With this major milestone, Tyla’s future looks bright as she continues to break boundaries and showcase her talent to a global audience.
Tyla’s win is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a celebration of the power and influence of African music and a reminder of the talent that continues to emerge from the continent.
