The global wave of Afrobeats is showing no signs of slowing down, and the American Music Awards 2026 is once again putting the spotlight on the genre with a stacked lineup for the Best Afrobeats Artist category.
Leading this year’s nominations are some of the biggest names shaping the sound worldwide, including Burna Boy, Rema, and Wizkid—artists who have consistently pushed African music onto the global stage.
They are joined by Ghanaian-American rising star MOLIY and South African breakout act Tyla, making the category a dynamic mix of established heavyweights and new-generation voices redefining the genre’s reach.
The inclusion of these artists reflects just how expansive Afrobeats—and its related sounds—has become, stretching across continents while continuing to evolve.
Looking back, Tyla made history at the 2025 edition of the awards by winning Favorite Afrobeats Artist, beating out strong contenders like Wizkid, Rema, Tems, and Asake. Her victory marked a significant moment for the South African star, cementing her place in the global conversation.
Wizkid, on the other hand, still holds a special place in the category’s history as its first-ever winner, having claimed the inaugural Favorite Afrobeats Artist award in 2022.
With this year’s nominees, the conversation isn’t just about who wins—it’s about how far the genre has come, and the diverse set of artists now carrying Afrobeats into its next global chapter.
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