During the 66th edition of the Grammy Awards, a poignant moment unfolded as the organizers played the track ‘Water’ by the late Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, while announcing South African singer Tyla’s ‘Water’ as the winner of the inaugural Best African Music Performance category.
The Recording Academy, on Sunday, bestowed Tyla’s ‘Water’ with the historic honor of being the first recipient of the Best African Music Performance award. This symbolic gesture bridged generations, paying homage to Fela Kuti’s influential legacy in African music.
Tyla emerged victorious in the category, surpassing tracks by Nigerian artists like Davido’s ‘Unavailable,’ Asake’s ‘Amapiano,’ Burna Boy’s ‘City Boys,’ and Ayra Starr’s ‘Rush.’
However, to the surprise of many, after the announcement, Fela’s timeless classic, ‘Water No Get Enemy,’ resonated instead of Tyla’s mid-tempo track with sexual themes.
This blunder triggered reactions from fans and music critics, particularly in Nigeria, with many criticizing the Recording Academy for the “silly mistake.”
Reactions as Grammy Awards play Fela Kuti’s ‘Water’ while announcing Tyla as winner
AlvinAdegoke penned: “Abi Grammy think say nah tyla water be this 🫠😹.”
iam_Daposh noted: “You sure say no be Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s “Water” Tyla submit to #Grammy’s.”
adepromise said: “Abi Tyla submitted Fela Water to Win Grammy. We need to do our investigation.”
Mayo6Tee reacted: “They Submitted which Water lol 😂 🤣🤣😂😂 .. @RecordingAcad you’ve done it again.”
bruzieee wrote: “This is pure foolishness, why use Fela song titled Water? Are they ashamed to play the song that got the award?”
Watch the video below …
Fela Kuti’s “Water” was played when Tyla was announced winner of “Best African Music Performance” at the #Grammys 👀 pic.twitter.com/hzjjynvBKA
— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) February 4, 2024
