The 2026 GRAMMY nominations are out, and three of Afrobeats’ most prominent names, Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr, have earned nods across key global categories. It’s another chapter in the genre’s steady rise, told through artists who continue to move both sound and audience.
Burna Boy’s Continued Run
For Burna Boy, the nominations extend a familiar streak. His album No Sign of Weakness earned a place in Best Global Music Album, while his single TaTaTa landed in Best African Music Performance. The acknowledgment reinforces his presence at the GRAMMYs, where he has become a near-constant name since his 2020 win for Twice as Tall.
Davido’s Momentum Carries Through
Davido’s Timeless era continues to echo into 2026. His track Unavailable received a nomination in Best African Music Performance, and Champion Sound with Focalistic earned a spot in Best Global Music Collaboration. It’s a recognition that aligns with his strong touring year and consistent visibility across international charts.
Ayra Starr’s Breakthrough Moment
For Ayra Starr, the nod for Commas marks both personal and generational progress. Still in her early twenties, she’s now among the youngest Nigerian artists to receive a GRAMMY nomination. Her recognition feels like a reflection of how new voices, especially female artists, are shaping what Afrobeats sounds like in real time.
Reading the Moment
This year’s nominations reflect the widening scope of African music on the world stage. Between Burna Boy’s layered storytelling, Davido’s celebratory sound, and Ayra Starr’s sleek modern edge, the category captures the full spectrum of Afrobeats’ evolution.
A Broader Field of Global Nominees
Beyond the Afrobeats key figures, this year’s global nominations feel more connected than ever. South Africa’s Tyla keeps her momentum with PUSH 2 START, while Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin carry East Africa’s pulse with Hope & Love. The list also highlights timeless artists like Youssou N’Dour, Anoushka Shankar, and Angélique Kidjo, each bringing their own stories and sounds to the mix.
The awards will be held in Los Angeles on February 8, 2026, but for many fans, the recognition itself already feels like a win. Three artists. One sound that keeps finding new ground.
Want to See Which Categories They Made? See Below
Best African Music Performance
- Love – Burna Boy
- With You – Davido featuring Omah Lay
- Hope & Love – Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin
- Gimme Dat – Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid
- PUSH 2 START – Tyla
Best Global Music Album
- Sounds Of Kumbha – Siddhant Bhatia
- No Sign of Weakness – Burna Boy
- Eclairer le monde (Light the World) – Youssou N’Dour
- Mind Explosion – Shakti
- Chapter III: We Return To Light – Anoushka Shankar featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar
- Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo – Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia
Best Global Music Performance
- EoO – Bad Bunny
- Cantando en el Camino – Ciro Hurtado
- JERUSALEMA – Angélique Kidjo
- Inmigrante Y Que? – Yeisy Rojas
- Shrini’s Dream – Shakti
- Daybreak – Anoushka Shankar featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar
