South African singer Tyla was named Best New Artist at the BET Awards 2024 on Monday.

Tyla’s debut single, ‘Water’, catapulted her to global fame and earned her several accolades, including the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance in February 2024.

At 22 years old, she became the youngest African artist to receive a Grammy.

In the early hours of Monday, she accepted the award for Best New Artist, edging out her fellow African act, Ayra Starr, 41, 4Batz, Bossman Dlow, Fridayy, October London and Sexyy Red.

 

In her acceptance speech, Tyla said, “This is such a gift to be here. I want to dedicate this one to Africa. I want to dedicate this 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.”

She also won the award for ‘Best International Act’ beating Asake, Ayra Starr, Aya Nakamura (France) and other artistes from around the world.

Burna Boy, Tems and Seyi Vibes also earned nominations in yet-to-be-awarded categories.