Tyla beats Burna Boy, Asake, Rema, Tems, and Ayra Starr to win Best Afrobeats award at MTV EMAs 2024

South African singer, Tyla has achieved another milestone in her music career by winning the Best Afrobeats award at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards.

The annual MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) celebrated its 30th edition on Sunday, November 10, honoring outstanding artists and breakthrough acts, and showcasing the best of global music diversity. The event was held at the Co-op Arena last night.

The MTV EMAs’ Best Afrobeats category featured a list of Nigerian singers including Burna Boy, Tems, Rema, Asake, and Ayra Starr. However, Tyla won the award for the Best Afrobeats, a Nigerian music genre.

The South African singer also took home Best R&B and Best African Act awards during the award ceremony.

When accepting her Best Afrobeats award, she brought her sister up on stage.

“If you guys don’t know (her), this is my sister, Sydney (Seethal),” began Tyla followed by cheers from the audience. “Oh my gosh, guys – I can’t believe it.

“Literally, all the nominees, they are insane, they literally have taken Afrobeats so far. And I’m so honoured to be winning this award, you know, like it’s insane. But I just want to thank my team.

“I want to thank my family, the Tygers for voting for me. Thank you to God, obviously. You know Afrobeats has opened so many doors for African music.” 

The Water singer turned to her sister, who said to Tyla, “Girl, I’m proud of you!”