South African entertainment icon Somizi Mhlongo has issued a fiery response to the social media storm following the 2026 Grammy Awards. The controversy erupted after 24-year-old sensation Tyla secured her second career Grammy for Best African Music Performance, beating out heavy favorites including Nigerian superstar Davido.
In a viral video, Somizi took aim at what he describes as a “suffocating sense of entitlement” within certain sectors of the African music fan base, specifically addressing the backlash coming from Nigeria.
The Entitlement Argument
Somizi didn’t mince words, suggesting that the criticism against Tyla undermines the credibility of the awards and the talent of the artists involved.
- Not a “National” Award: Somizi reminded critics that the Grammys are an international standard, not a domestic ceremony. “Grammys are not your mother’s jumping castle party. Grammys are not Nigerian music awards,” he stated.
- The “Afrobeats” Misconception: He clarified a major point of contention, noting that the category was for Best African Music Performance, not exclusively for Afrobeats. This distinction, he argues, validates Tyla’s unique South African sound.
- The Math of Success: Somizi pointed to Tyla’s global dominance, asserting that “the numbers don’t lie” and that her win was based on objective impact rather than sentiment.
A Blow to African Unity?
Beyond the music, Somizi expressed deep concern over how the infighting appears to the rest of the world. He argued that the vitriol—largely directed at a young South African woman—paints a picture of a divided continent.
“People look at us and say, ‘Look at these Africans, we give them a chance, and now they’re fighting over it.’ Stop thinking you are the gods of music. Nigerian music is beautiful, but you’re taking away the beauty of African music.”
The Growing Tyla vs. Davido Rivalry
This win marks Tyla’s second consecutive victory in this category, further solidifying her status as a global pop force. For Davido and his fans, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow, as many felt 2025 was the year for the “OBO” to finally claim his trophy. Somizi, however, urged the continent to celebrate the fact that the award stayed on African soil, regardless of the specific country.
