Over the decades, several African musicians have left an indelible mark on the Grammy Awards stage. Among the most iconic are Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Miriam Makeba, Angélique Kidjo and Tyla — artists whose wins were not only historic but deeply symbolic for African music on the global scene.
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (Nigeria)
In a landmark moment for global music history, Nigerian music legend, activist and Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was honoured with the 2026 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the first African artist to receive the prestigious accolade.
The recognition came nearly three decades after his passing in 1997 and underscored the enduring influence of his music, political activism and cultural legacy worldwide.
The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award is presented by the Recording Academy to performers who have made creative contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording, celebrating artists whose work has shaped the course of music history.
Miriam Makeba (South Africa)
South African icon Miriam Makeba, affectionately known as Mama Africa, became the first African Grammy Award winner in 1966. She received the honour alongside American singer Harry Belafonte for their collaborative album An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba.
Beyond her musical achievements, Makeba was a fearless anti-apartheid activist and played a pivotal role in introducing African music and culture to international audiences.
Angélique Kidjo (Benin Republic)
Beninese music legend Angélique Kidjo is the most decorated African artist in Grammy history, with five wins to her name. Her accolades include awards for Eve, Sings, Celia, Mother Nature and Queen of Sheba.
Renowned for blending traditional African rhythms with funk, jazz and Latin influences, Kidjo has also been a tireless advocate for African culture, social justice and women’s empowerment.
Tyla (South Africa)
South African pop sensation Tyla made history in 2024 as the first-ever winner of the Best African Music Performance category, newly introduced by the Recording Academy.
She won the award with her global hit single Water, marking a major breakthrough for Amapiano and African pop on the world stage.
She went on to repeat the feat in 2026 at the 68th Grammy Awards, defeating nominees including Davido, Ayra Starr and Kenyan artist Kenzo, to claim the award with her single Push 2 Start.
In recent years, other African stars such as Burna Boy, Tems, Wizkid and Black Coffee have also continued to raise the continent’s profile at the Grammys, reinforcing Africa’s growing influence in global music.
