Why Tyla Won Grammy and Not Davido: What Nigerian Artists Must Understand

The global music conversation shifted dramatically when South African singer Tyla won the Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance, while Nigerian megastar Davido walked away without the trophy. Almost immediately, social media exploded with debates, anger, comparisons, and emotional reactions from fans—especially Nigerians.

But beyond the fan wars lies a deeper truth: the Grammy Awards operate on rules and structures many African artists and fans still do not fully understand. This article breaks down why Tyla won the Grammy, why Davido did not, and what Nigerian artists must know if they truly want Grammy success.

Understanding the Grammy Awards: It Is Not a Popularity Contest

One of the biggest misconceptions in Africa is the belief that Grammys are awarded based on popularity, social media influence, or streaming numbers alone. This is completely false.

The Grammy Awards are decided by members of the Recording Academy—music professionals such as producers, engineers, songwriters, and executives. They vote based on artistic merit, originality, composition, cultural impact, and technical quality.

Key Fact Nigerian Artists Must Accept

Being the biggest artist in Africa does not automatically translate to winning a Grammy. The Grammy system rewards songs, not status.

Why Tyla Won the Grammy

Tyla’s Grammy win was not accidental, political, or a pity award. Her hit song “Water” checked almost every box required by the Grammy Academy.

1. Clear Genre Definition

“Water” was clearly positioned within the Afrobeats/Amapiano fusion sound. It had a clean genre identity, making it easy for voters to categorize and assess.

2. Global Cultural Impact

The song crossed borders effortlessly. It charted globally, went viral on TikTok, and introduced millions of listeners to a distinctly African rhythm—without trying to sound American.

3. Sonic Simplicity and Originality

Grammy voters often favor songs that are musically clean, emotionally resonant, and culturally rooted. “Water” was simple, melodic, and timeless—qualities the Academy loves.

4. Strong Grammy Campaigning

Behind every Grammy win is a strategic campaign. Tyla’s team properly submitted the song, categorized it correctly, and ensured it reached the right Grammy voters.

Why Davido Did Not Win the Grammy

Davido is undeniably one of Africa’s biggest artists. However, Grammy success is not about dominance—it is about alignment with Grammy standards.

1. Song Selection Matters

While Davido released a successful album, the specific song submitted may not have resonated strongly with Grammy voters in terms of innovation and uniqueness.

2. Over-Commercial Sound

Ironically, being too commercial can sometimes work against an artist. The Grammys often lean toward music that feels artistically daring rather than radio-engineered.

3. Competitive Category

The Best African Music Performance category is extremely competitive. Tyla, Burna Boy, Asake, Ayra Starr, and others were all in the mix—only one could win.

What Nigerian Artists Must Learn From Tyla’s Grammy Win

1. Grammy Is About Strategy, Not Noise

Posting online, dragging other artists, or attacking winners does nothing. Artists need Grammy-focused strategies—right from song creation to submission.

2. Sound Identity Is Everything

Trying to sound like everyone else reduces Grammy chances. The Academy respects artists who preserve cultural originality.

3. Proper Label and Management Support

International recognition requires experienced teams who understand award politics, campaign timing, and industry networking.

4. African Unity Matters

The constant Nigeria vs South Africa rivalry only weakens African music globally. Tyla’s win is a win for Africa—not a loss for Nigeria.

Why Comparing Tyla and Davido Is Misguided

Davido and Tyla are at different career stages, making different types of music for different audiences. One winning does not invalidate the other.

Just like Burna Boy, Angelique Kidjo, and Wizkid have all won Grammys in different contexts, Tyla’s win represents a specific moment—not a hierarchy.

Final Thoughts: The Grammy Blueprint for Nigerian Artists

If Nigerian artists want to win Grammys consistently, they must stop chasing trends and start chasing excellence.

Understanding the system, respecting artistic depth, and investing in global-standard production is the real path forward.

Why Tyla won the Grammy is not a mystery—it is a lesson. And the artists who learn from it will be the next winners.

Drop Your Comment

What do you think about Tyla’s Grammy win and Davido’s loss? Do you believe Nigerian artists are doing enough to understand the Grammy system? Drop your thoughts below and join the conversation.