Los Angeles, California – South African singer Tyla emerged as a double winner at the 2024 BET Awards held on Monday in Los Angeles. The 22-year-old secured the prestigious Best New Artist award, solidifying her status as a rising star on the global stage.
Tyla’s meteoric rise began with her debut single, “Water,” which catapulted her to international recognition. This success continued earlier this year when she became the youngest African artist ever to win a Grammy Award, taking home the trophy for Best African Music Performance.
At the BET Awards, Tyla faced stiff competition in the Best New Artist category, including fellow African nominees Ayra Starr, 41, 4Batz, Bossman Dlow, Fridayy, October London, and Sexyy Red. However, she emerged victorious, dedicating the award to Africa and the generation of artists who paved the way for her achievements. “This is such a gift to be here,” she said in her emotional acceptance speech. “I want to dedicate this one to Africa. To all the African superstars before me that didn’t get these opportunities that I’m getting. This is just amazing. Africa to the world guys!”
But Tyla’s night didn’t stop there. She went on to win the award for Best International Act, beating out Afrobeats giants like Asake and Ayra Starr, along with international artists such as Aya Nakamura (France).
The ceremony also saw nominations for other established African artists, including Burna Boy, Tems, and Seyi Vibes, whose categories are yet to be announced.
