From the rhythmic beats of Afrobeat to the soul-stirring melodies of African gospel, African extraordinary musicians have left an indelible mark on the global Music scene. Grammy-winning African Artists have showcased their talent, creativity, and cultural influence helping them win the prestigious awards in the industry.
We have compiled a list of Grammy-winning African artists making a mark in the world!
1. Burna Boy
He is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper. He gained international recognition for his fusion of Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall music. Burna Boy won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album in 2021 for his album “Twice as Tall.”
2. Wizkid
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He is one of the biggest stars in the Afrobeats genre and has collaborated with numerous international artists. Wizkid won the Grammy Award for Best Music Video in 2021 for his feature on Beyoncé’s song “Brown Skin Girl.”
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3. Jenn Nkiru
Jenn Nkiru is a British-Nigerian filmmaker and director known for her visually striking and thought-provoking work. While she hasn’t won a Grammy herself, she has contributed to projects that have received Grammy recognition, such as directing music videos for Beyoncé and Jay-Z (2021- Best Music Video: Brown Skin Girl).
4. Helen Folasade Adu
Helen Folasade Adu, commonly known as Sade, is a British-Nigerian singer and songwriter. She is the lead vocalist of the band named after her. Sade has won multiple Grammy Awards throughout her career for her soulful and smooth blend of R&B, jazz, and pop.
Here they are:
- 1986- Best New Artist: Sade
- 1994- Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal: No Ordinary Love
- 2002- Best Pop Vocal Album: Lovers Rock
- 2011- Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal: Soldier of Love
5. Lekan Babalola
Lekan Babalola is a Nigerian percussionist and musician. He has collaborated with various artists and has received Grammy Awards for his contributions to world music and jazz albums.
Here are the Grammys:
- 2006- : In The Heart of the Moon
- 2009- : Lovely
6. Tinariwen
Tinariwen is a Grammy Award-winning musical group from Mali. Their music is characterized by a blend of traditional Tuareg music, African rhythms, and Western influences. They have gained international acclaim for their unique sound and powerful messages.
The received a Grammy Award for 2012- Best World Music Album: Tassili.
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7. Soweto Gospel Choir
The Soweto Gospel Choir performed on 7 December in a Gala Concert in Graz, Austria around the ‘Voices of Spirit’ Choir festival. Image source: Wikimedia. Licensed by: CC BY 2.0
The Soweto Gospel Choir is a South African gospel group renowned for their uplifting vocal performances. They have won multiple Grammy Awards for their albums, which showcase the rich and vibrant sounds of South African gospel music.
And these are the awards:
- 2007- Best Traditional World Music: Blessed
- 2008- Best Traditional World Music: African Spirit
8. Tems
Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. She has gained recognition for her soulful and introspective music, blending elements of R&B, Afrobeat, and alternative pop.
She bagged her first grammy award in 2023 under the category Best Melodic Rap Performance (2023- Best Melodic Rap Performance: Wait for U (Future, Drake & Tems).
9. Black Coffee
Black Coffee, the stage name of Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo, is a celebrated DJ known for his classical music infused with R&B and jazz.
He won a Grammy Award in 2002 for Best Dance/Electronic Album. His album “Subconsciously” explores the internal struggles we face in love, decision-making, time, and youth. It takes listeners on a reflective journey through life’s complexities.
10 Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Innsbruck, Austria, 2008. Image source: Wikimedia. Licensed by: Public Domain
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is an all-male singing group known for their indigenous vocal styles and A cappella music. Their song “Shaka Zulu” gained international fame in 1988.
They have been Grammy-nominated and won several times, including Best World Music Album for “Shaka Zulu Revisited: 30th Anniversary Celebration” in 2008. “Shaka Zulu” is an inspiring anthem, urging Africans to strive for personal growth and be the best they can be.
Here are the Awards:
- 1988- Best Traditional Folk Album: Shaka Zulu
- 2004- Best Traditional World Music Album: Raise Your Spirit Higher
- 2009- Best Traditional World Music Album: Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu
- 2013- Best World Music Album: Live: Singing for Peace around the World
- 2018- Best World Music Album: Shaka Zulu Revisited: 30th Anniversary Celebration
Grammy winning African artists we have celebrated are true ambassadors of African excellence in the music industry. Through their exceptional talent, they have captivated audiences worldwide and have showcased the rich diversity of African music and culture.
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