Ghanaian artists found themselves notably absent from the nominations for the inaugural Grammy category, “Best African Music Performance.” In contrast, Nigeria took the lead with an impressive four nominations. The unveiling of the nominees for the 2024 Grammy Awards took place on November 10, 2023, with the introduction of the new category aimed at acknowledging exceptional recordings that incorporate distinctive local expressions from various African regions. The nominated artists and their respective songs are as follows:
1. Asake & Olamide – “Amapiano” (Nigeria)
2. Burna – “City Boys” (Nigeria)
3. Davido ft. Musa key – “Unavailable” (Nigeria)
4. Ayra Starr – “Rush” (Nigeria)
5. Tyla – “Water” (South Africa)
The 2024 Grammy Awards ceremony is slated to occur on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena. The event will be televised on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, with the annual Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony preceding the main event.
These new award categories were officially sanctioned during the Recording Academy’s semiannual Board of Trustees meeting in May 2023.
Ghanaian artists have long made significant contributions to the vibrant and diverse music scene in Africa, with their talents recognized not only on the continent but also worldwide. Their absence in the nominations for the inaugural Grammy category for Best African Music Performance raises questions and highlights the competitive nature of the music industry in the African region.
Nigeria’s dominance in the nominations underscores the country’s flourishing music industry, which has produced numerous world-renowned artists and garnered international acclaim. The inclusion of diverse genres and talents in the nominations showcases the rich musical tapestry of Africa, with nominees representing a range of styles and cultural influences.
The 2024 Grammy Awards, one of the most prestigious events in the global music calendar, will offer a platform to celebrate and honor exceptional music from around the world. The new category, “Best African Music Performance,” reflects the Recording Academy’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating the diversity and artistic excellence of African music.
The Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony, held before the main event, provides an opportunity to acknowledge numerous categories, including those honoring the technical and creative aspects of music production. This adds an extra layer of excitement to the Grammy Awards experience, as it spotlights the behind-the-scenes talent that contributes to the music industry’s success.
The music industry’s ever-evolving nature ensures that these award categories remain relevant, reflecting the changing landscape of music production and consumption. The introduction of new categories like “Best African Music Performance” is a testament to the Recording Academy’s dedication to staying current and inclusive.
While Ghanaian artists may not have secured nominations in this particular category, their influence and contributions to African music remain invaluable. The global stage continues to provide opportunities for recognition, and the vibrant music scenes across Africa ensure that the continent will remain a focal point in the world of music for years to come.
