Following Harvey Mason Jr.’s trips to Africa in 2022, the Recording Academy was keen on becoming a strong collaborator for the creative communities across the continent. This year, the category of best African music performance was introduced. According to chief awards and industry officer Ruby Marchand, artists globally see this as a significant acknowledgment of African music’s impact and influence. The academy’s African music genre manager, Shawn Thwaites, believes that the addition reflects Africa’s profound influence on music history. Mason emphasizes that it marks the beginning of their journey to support global music creators even more ambitiously.
The nominees for the best African music performance category share their thoughts on this groundbreaking new category and its implications for the future of African music.
Initial Reaction to the New Category
Asake: I was both excited and grateful upon learning about the new category. African music and traditions have had a significant global influence, and it’s long overdue for its own category. It’s an incredible moment to be part of this recognition.
Olamide: The nomination for our collaboration, “Amapiano,” was a blessing and a validation of the hard work put in by our team, which has dominated the African continent and the global music scene over the years.
Asake: The first class of nominees is brilliant, diverse, and incredibly necessary. The Recording Academy’s decision to introduce this category is commendable and provides African artists with the recognition they deserve.
Impact of the First Year of the Category on the Industry
Asake: This inaugural year of the category will inspire young artists by validating their dreams and providing them with a platform to showcase their talents on the global stage.
Olamide: The category will have a significant impact on the industry, exposing African music to a wider global audience and fostering more collaborations within the music industry.
Significance of the New Category
The introduction of the best African music performance category is a significant milestone for the African music industry, symbolizing global recognition and appreciation of the diverse musical traditions from the continent. It serves as a bridge connecting the world to African music and represents a proud moment for every African artist.
Nomination in the Historic First Class
Being part of the historic first class of nominees is a tremendous honor and a testament to the incredible diversity and talent within African music. It’s a moment of celebration for every African artist who has contributed to the vibrant music scene.
Positive Impact on the Industry
The category will be a game-changer for African musicians, providing them with global recognition and opening up new opportunities for wider audiences. It will also encourage more collaborations and cultural exchanges within the music industry, fostering pride and achievement within the African music community.
What was your reaction to the introduction of the new Best African Music Performance category at the Grammys?
I felt very excited about the new category. It demonstrates inclusivity and recognition for African artists. It’s a significant acknowledgment of the efforts we put in, and it’s rewarding to see our work being appreciated on a global stage.
How does it feel to not only be nominated for “Rush” but to be included in the inaugural class of this category?
It feels truly iconic. Being part of this historic moment at the age of 21 is mind-blowing. Sometimes, I have to pinch myself to believe that it’s all real and not just a dream.
What are your thoughts on the first class of nominees in this category?
I believe that everyone in this category is exceptional. It must have taken an immense amount of hard work to bring together such incredible artists. They are all truly amazing artists whom I admire, and I am proud to be nominated alongside them.
How did you feel when you heard about the new best African music performance category?
When I first heard about the new category, I was extremely thrilled. Watching the Grammys while growing up, I always envisioned being nominated and winning awards like my favorite artists. The creation of a dedicated category for African artists holds significant meaning. It has the potential to open doors for African artists and introduce our unique sound to a global audience.
What is it like to not only be nominated but be included in this category’s first class?
Being nominated for a Grammy is an immense honor, and to be nominated for the first time in a category that celebrates African music in its inaugural year is truly special. I feel incredibly blessed, happy, and excited. Regardless of the outcome, I am looking forward to attending and savoring the evening. This is a momentous occasion for Africa, and I am grateful to be a part of it.
Whom will you bring to the Grammys?
If I could, I would bring the whole of South Africa, but I am sure my parents will be there with me.
This story will appear in the Dec. 16, 2023, issue of Billboard.
