FULL LIST: Tyla beats Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema at AMA 2026

South African artist Tyla has emerged as a major winner at the 52nd American Music Awards, securing two prestigious trophies and solidifying her international breakthrough.

The 24-year-old artist claimed the award for Best Afrobeats Artist, triumphing over formidable Nigerian talents Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Rema, as well as Ghanaian-American singer MOLIY in the fan-voted category. This victory highlights her growing influence in the global music scene.

“

Tyla wins best Best Afrobeats, “PUSH 2 START” at the VMAs.

Adding to her accolades, Tyla also won Social Song of the Year for her 2025 hit "CHANEL." This dual win makes her the sole African artist to receive an award on the night, underscoring her significant impact.

“

She also claimed Social Song of the Year for her 2025 hit “CHANEL,” making her the only African artist to win on the night.

Although Tyla was not present to accept her awards, the double victory represents a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career. "CHANEL," released in October 2025, has achieved remarkable commercial success, amassing over 320 million streams on Spotify and topping charts internationally. The song follows the global success of her 2023 breakout single "Water."

Tyla's consistent success in the Afrobeats category has also sparked conversations about her genre-blending musical style, which artfully fuses amapiano, pop, R&B, and Afrobeats elements. The American Music Awards ceremony, hosted by Queen Latifah, also saw other notable winners, including BTS for Artist of the Year and Sabrina Carpenter for Album of the Year.

“

The 24-year-old artist took home Best Afrobeats Artist, beating Nigerian stars Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Rema, as well as Ghanaian-American singer MOLIY in the fan-voted category.