African music is finally receiving the recognition it deserves, with many talented stars being rightfully rewarded for their hard work. One of the most coveted awards in the industry has always been the Grammy Award, and some African acts have had the honor of receiving this prestigious accolade. In celebration of the growth of African music, here’s a list of all the African artists who have been Grammy Award recipients.
It’s no exaggeration to categorize the Grammy Awards as one of the most prestigious honors in the music world. The significance of securing a Grammy before being considered a successful artist in the West is often a topic of debate. For Western artists, the award holds great importance because the Recording Academy has consistently recognized talent and dedication. Achieving this recognition as an African act is indeed a noteworthy accomplishment and something to be celebrated.
Winning such a prestigious award is a testament to how far an artist has come in the music industry and how much attention African music is garnering on a global scale. From iconic figures like Fela Kuti to Angelique Kidjo and many more, African music continues to shine in the spotlight. The evolution of African music is being acknowledged, with the Recording Academy introducing a new category to celebrate it.
Music has always been a deep passion for African artists, and the crucial part has been receiving the recognition they deserve. The Recording Academy continues to reward excellence in the industry, and we’ve compiled a list of Africans who have consistently been acknowledged for their outstanding contributions.
Who is the first African to win a Grammy Award?
Zenzile Miriam Makeba, a renowned figure in the realm of South African music and a talented singer and activist affectionately referred to as Mama Africa, boasts an impressive record of nine Grammy Award nominations. In a groundbreaking moment for African artists, she clinched her first Grammy award back in 1964 for her collaboration with Harry Belafonte on the album “An Evening with Belafonte,” earning the honor in the Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording category.
Who Is The First Nigerian To Win A Grammy Award?
According to the official Grammy website, Sikiru Adepoju made history as the first Nigerian to win a Grammy award. He achieved this milestone at the 53rd Grammy Awards, where he was honored for his outstanding contribution to the ‘Global Drum Project,’ which won the Best Contemporary World Music Album category.
Lists of African Artists Who Have Received Grammy Awards
Tems
Black Coffee
Miriam Makeba
Sikiru Adepoju
Tinariwen
Wouter Kellerman
Wizkid
Burna Boy
Youssou N’Dour
Soweto Gospel Choir
Ali Farka Toure
Angelique Kidjo
Ladysmith Black Mambazo