The global rise of Nigerian music shows no signs of slowing as the countdown to the 68th Grammy Awards officially begins.
Set for Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, this year’s ceremony will once again shine a powerful spotlight on Nigeria’s thriving music industry. Five Nigerian artists have earned nominations, underlining the country’s growing influence and consistency on the world’s biggest music stage.
Burna Boy leads Nigeria’s charge with two nominations, further cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s most dependable Grammy contenders. The African Giant is nominated for “Love” in the Best African Music Performance category and No Sign of Weakness in Best Global Music Album, continuing his impressive run at the awards.
Davido returns to the Grammy race with “With You” featuring Omah Lay, also nominated in Best African Music Performance. The song, a lead single from his album 5ive, enjoyed massive commercial success, breaking records with 4.98 million first-week streams on Spotify Nigeria in 2025. The nomination follows Davido’s widely celebrated international tours and high-profile collaborations.
Ayra Starr secures another major Grammy moment with “Gimme Dat” featuring Wizkid, earning a nomination in the same category. The collaboration blends star power with global appeal, marking another milestone in Ayra Starr’s fast-rising international career.
Wizkid, already a Grammy veteran, adds to his decorated history through his feature on “Gimme Dat”, while Omah Lay earns recognition for his contribution to “With You.” Known for his emotional depth and vulnerability, Omah Lay’s nomination highlights how his sound continues to resonate well beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Adding historic significance to Nigeria’s presence this year, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti will receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the first African artist to receive the honor. He will be celebrated alongside music legends including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon at the Special Merit Awards Ceremony on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
As Afrobeats and Nigerian music continue to shape global soundscapes, the 2026 Grammy Awards stand as another defining moment — not just for the nominated artists, but for Nigeria’s enduring cultural impact on the world.
