# GRAMMY CHEW: Best African Music Performance
Among the newly introduced Grammy categories, one of the most captivating is the Best African Music Performance. The Recording Academy has announced that the category will shine a spotlight on “regional melodic, harmonic and rhythmic musical traditions” and will encompass artists in genres such as Afrobeat, Afro-fusion, Afro Pop, Afrobeats, Alte, Amapiano, Bongo Flava, Genge, Kizomba, Chimurenga, High Life, Fuji, Kwassa, Ndombolo, Mapouka, Ghanaian Drill, Afro-House, South African Hip-Hop, and Ethio Jazz.
In a year characterized by vibrant Afrobeats and Afropop releases, let’s explore the front-runners, semi-locks, and dark horses in this inaugural category. Here are some potential contenders:
Front-runners
Burna Boy, “Sittin’ on Top of the World” (Atlantic): In the realm of Afrobeats, Burna Boy stands out with the resounding anthem “Sittin’ on Top of the World.” This track, which garnered over 16 million Spotify streams, pays homage to Brandy‘s 1998 hit “Top of the World” while pushing the boundaries of hip-hop fusion to new heights.
Davido f/Musa Keys, “UNAVAILABLE” (RCA/Columbia): Known for consistency, Davido delivered the opulent “Unavailable” in 2023, firmly shutting the door on detractors with the ceremonial power of a tribal dance anthem, accompanied by a music video that has amassed over 66 million views on YouTube.
Rema, “Charm” (Mavin Records/Jonzing World/Virgin): With his ethereal single “Calm Down,” a collaboration with Selena Gomez, Rema made a significant impact in 2022. His latest offering, “Charm,” seamlessly blends the essence of Afrobeat with R&B rhythms, further solidifying his appeal.
Semi-Locks
Tiwa Savage f/Ayra Starr and Young Jonn, “Stamina” (We4we): “Stamina” stands out as a gem among Afrobeat collaborations, weaving a captivating narrative through the interplay between Savage, Young Jonn, and Starr.
Bnxn f/Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez, “GWAGWALADA” (EMPIRE): Bnxn, formerly known as Buju, receives remarkable support from Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez, adding the finishing touches to this evocative ode celebrating Nigeria’s illustrious capital territory.
Adekunle Gold f/Zinoleesky, “Party No Dey Stop” (Def Jam): With 33 million+ Spotify streams, Adekunle Gold’s lively Afropop single, produced in collaboration with Kel-P and Monro, offers a poignant reflection on the embrace of God’s grace.
Other Contenders
Tyla, “Water” (Epic): At just 21 years old, South African prodigy Tyla exhibits maturity and grace beyond her years in her breakthrough work. Her evocative traditional R&B style in “Water” continues to make waves on DSPs and at radio.
Asake f/Olamide, “Amapiano” (EMPIRE): Asake’s infectious tribal dance tune “Amapiano” from his debut album, Work of Art, has firmly established his presence and impact in the Afrobeat scene.
Major Lazer & Major League Djz f/Brenda Fassie, “Mamgobhozi” (Mad Decent/AMPED): Through their EP, Piano Republik, the American EDM DJ trio and African DJ/producer duo breathe new life into the ethereal vocals of the late Queen of African Pop, Brenda Fassie.
