South African artist Tyla used her historic win at the 2024 Video Music Awards (VMAs) to shine a spotlight on the diversity of African music, explaining that it is much more than just Afrobeats.
The Johannesburg native, who has become a global sensation with her breakout hit “Water,” took home the award for “Best Afrobeats,” but in her acceptance speech, she set the record straight: she is an Amapiano artist.
Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion on September 11, the VMAs saw Tyla making waves not just for her win, but for educating the audience on the distinction between Afrobeats and Amapiano.
“This is so special but bittersweet,” Tyla said. “There is a tendency to group all African artists under Afrobeats. Even though Afrobeats has opened many doors for us, African music is so diverse. It is more than just Afrobeats.”
Tyla’s homegrown genre, Amapiano, hails from South Africa and is known for its smooth, vibrant beats and unique dance moves such as bouncing and shuffling.
Along with Tyla, artists like Uncle Waffles, Kabza De Small, and Lady Du have helped bring Amapiano to the global stage.
“I come from South Africa,” she continued. “I represent Ampiano. I represent my culture.”
Tyla’s message shows the importance of recognizing the full spectrum of African music, which includes diverse genres like Amapiano, Afro-fusion, and others that are distinct from Afrobeats.
Her speech resonated with fans worldwide, highlighting that African music deserves to be seen and celebrated in its many forms.
