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“This is special but also bittersweet, I represent Amapiano”– South African sensation Tyla has emerged victorious at the MTV Video Music Awards 2024, clinching the coveted Best Afrobeats Award.(WATCH)

In a historic moment for the music industry, South African sensation Tyla has etched her name in the annals of history by becoming the first African female artist to clinch the prestigious Best Afrobeats Award at the MTV Video Music Awards 2024.

The star-studded event unfolded at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on the evening of September 11, marking a significant milestone not only for Tyla but also for the representation of African talent on global platforms.

Triumphing in the fiercely competitive Best Afrobeats category, Tyla’s hit single “Water” stood out among a stellar lineup that included renowned artists such as Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, Chris Brown featuring Davido, Lojay, Tems, and Usher with Pheelz.

Her victory is a testament to her artistry and the growing influence of Afrobeats in the international music scene, marking a significant moment for both her career and the genre as a whole.

Tyla emphasized the rich tapestry of African music, asserting that it encompasses a wide array of styles beyond the popular Afrobeats.Her words resonated with the audience as she celebrated the diversity and depth of the continent’s musical landscape, reinforcing the idea that Amapiano is a vital part of this vibrant cultural expression.

While showing ber appreciation she says; “Thank you. MTV, my team, God, everyone, this is such a big moment for Africa. African music, guys. The global impact that Water has had on the world proves African music can also be pop music.”

“This is so special but also bittersweet, because I know there’s a tendency to group African artists under Afrobeats. It’s a thing and though Afrobeats has run things and has opened many doors for us, African music is so diverse, it’s more than just Afrobeats.

“I come from South Africa. I represent amapiano. I represent my culture. I want to shout out to all the Afrobeats artists in this category with me.

Shout out to Tems, Ayra Starr, shout out to Lojay, Rema, Whiskey, Burna Boy, all of us and yeah, I love you guys, Africa to the world!

“Stream my album Tyla,she ended playfully with a flick of her tongue, “and thank you again.”