South African sensation Tyla made history on May 27, 2025, by clinching the Best Afrobeats Artist award at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs). Held at the dazzling Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the event was hosted by Jennifer Lopez, marking her second time as the evening’s emcee after first taking the stage in 2015.
Tyla’s victory was particularly significant as she beat out some of the most prominent names in the genre—Asake, Tems, Wizkid, and Rema—to earn the coveted title. Her win cements her growing global influence and reinforces South Africa’s rising presence in the Afrobeats space, a genre typically dominated by Nigerian artists.
Each of the Nigerian nominees had an impressive year. Asake was recognized following the success of his third album, Lungu Boy, while Tems received a nod for her debut LP Born In The Wild. Rema, another fan favorite, was nominated for his sophomore album HEIS. Though they did not take home the award, their inclusion in the category speaks volumes about the strength and diversity of Afrobeats on the global stage.
Tyla’s breakthrough single and consistent digital success helped propel her to the top of the competition. With millions of streams and a steadily growing fan base, she has become one of the most prominent female voices in African music today. Her achievement at the AMAs not only highlights her talent but also showcases the genre’s expanding geographical and cultural footprint.
The night also saw spectacular performances from icons like Janet Jackson, Benson Boone, Gwen Stefani, Rod Stewart, and host Jennifer Lopez herself. But the biggest spotlight shone on Billie Eilish, who emerged as the night’s top winner. Eilish took home six awards, including Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for her hit Birds of a Feather.
Other notable winners included The Weeknd, who won Best R&B Album for Hurry Up Tomorrow, and Eminem, who took home Best Hip-Hop Album for The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce).
In a competitive field brimming with talent, Tyla’s win underscores the growing impact of African artists on the global music scene. It also suggests a shift in the traditional narrative, where non-Nigerian Afrobeats stars are beginning to receive international acclaim and awards recognition.
As Tyla continues to make waves internationally, her 2025 AMA win is likely to inspire a new generation of African musicians. It also sends a strong message: Afrobeats is no longer a regional sound—it’s a global force, and the world is listening.
