Tyla clinches NAACP Image Award, elevating South Africa's music scene

In a vibrant testament to her soaring career, Tyla, a two-time Grammy Award winner, has achieved yet another prestigious milestone by clinching the 2026 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding International Song for her breakout hit "Is It." Hailing from Johannesburg, the artist's latest accolade adds to her remarkable list of achievements, reinforcing her standing as one of South Africa's most successful musical exports.

The victory marks her 49th award in just three years a remarkable milestone that underscores her rapid ascent on the global stage. For the Johannesburg-born star, the latest honour further solidifies her position as one of South Africa’s most successful musical exports.

The announcement of Tyla's win has ignited a wave of jubilation across social media platforms, with fans celebrating what they deem a full-circle global moment for the amapiano-pop sensation. The NAACP Image Awards, hosted by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, honour exceptional achievements made by people of colour in various fields, including film, television, music, and literature. With this accolade, Tyla joins an elite group of cultural pioneers while simultaneously showcasing the expanding international appeal of African music.

Her award was revealed as part of the non-televised categories, preceding the star-studded 57th NAACP Image Awards ceremony scheduled to occur at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in California. The event will be hosted by comedian Deon Cole, with the main celebrations slated to air on BET and CBS.

In a fiercely competitive environment, Tyla triumphed over renowned nominees such as Skip Marley, Burna Boy, Davido featuring Omah Lay, and Tiwa Savage, a feat that speaks volumes about her artistry and the resonance she has forged. Since bursting onto the international scene, Tyla has masterfully blended amapiano, Afrobeats, and pop, creating a hybrid sound that has transcended geographic borders. "Is It" rapidly emerged as a fan favourite, lauded for its infectious rhythm and confident delivery, proving to be a standout track with impressive streaming performance across multiple platforms.

The NAACP recognition signifies much more than mere accolades; it underscores a commitment to spotlight artists who not only craft music but also reshape cultural narratives.

Meanwhile, fellow South African and five-time NAACP Image Award winner Trevor Noah also made waves this year with a nomination for his podcast "What Now? With Trevor Noah" in the Outstanding Podcast, Society and Culture category, further illustrating the impactful presence of South African talent on international platforms.

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Saturday Star