At the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards held on September 7, South African singer Tyla clinched the prestigious Best Afrobeats award for her hit single “PUSH 2 START,” marking a significant milestone in her rising international career. This victory highlights the growing global influence of African music, particularly the Afrobeats genre that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Tyla’s win comes despite heavy competition from several prominent Nigerian artists, including heavyweights like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Asake, Tems, Rema, and Ayra Starr, who were also nominated for the category. Nigerian music continues to dominate the genre globally, but this year the award went to Tyla, showcasing a broader pan-African representation in music recognition.
The event, held at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, was broadcast on CBS and featured some of the biggest names in music, including Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, and Billie Eilish. Tyla’s win in the Best Afrobeats category underscores the genre’s explosion beyond Nigeria’s borders, reflecting a more diversified landscape in African pop and dance music.
While Nigerian singers missed out on winning this time, their presence in multiple categories signals the continued impact and respect they command within the industry. Tyla’s success adds to the momentum of African artists making waves internationally and serves as encouragement for all Afrobeats musicians striving for global recognition.
The 2025 VMAs also introduced new categories like Best Pop Artist and Best Country Video, reflecting the evolving tastes and expanding reach of the global music scene. Tyla’s “PUSH 2 START” resonated with fans and industry insiders alike, blending contemporary sounds with vibrant rhythms that have become synonymous with the Afrobeats movement.
This win is expected to boost Tyla’s profile even further, opening more doors for collaborations and international exposure, while shining a spotlight on the diversity and richness of African music.
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