Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr and South African rising star Tyla have both earned four nominations for the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs). This year’s nominations reflect the growing international influence of African music, with both artists recognized in major categories alongside some of the biggest global names.

The nominations were announced on Wednesday, sparking excitement across the music world as fans gear up for the 30th edition of the prestigious awards, which will be held on November 10, 2024, at Co-op Live in Manchester, UK.

Ayra Starr, whose full name is Oyinkansola Aderigbigbe, has been making waves in the music industry since she first burst onto the scene with her unique blend of Afrobeats, pop, and R&B. Signed to Mavin Records, she gained international attention with her hit singles such as “Away” and “Bloody Samaritan”. Her sound, characterized by catchy melodies and powerful vocals, has helped her quickly rise to global stardom.

Ayra Starr’s four nominations include:

• Best African Act
• Best Push
• Best Afrobeats
• Best New Artist

These nominations highlight her talent and growing reputation, particularly in the Afrobeats genre, which continues to gain more attention on the world stage. In the Best Afrobeats category, she will compete with fellow Nigerian stars Burna Boy, Rema, Asake, and Tems, showcasing the strength of Nigerian talent in the global music scene.

South Africa’s Tyla has also earned four nominations in key categories:

• Best African Act
• Best New Artist
• Best Afrobeats
• Best R&B

Tyla’s rise to fame has been marked by her unique blend of Afrobeats, pop, and R&B, and her international hit “Water” has helped cement her place as a major player on the world stage. Known for her smooth vocals and genre-blending sound, Tyla has managed to break into global markets, earning her a spot alongside some of the most celebrated names in music today.

Her nomination for Best R&B puts her up against major names like SZA, Kehlani, and Tinashe, while her nomination for Best New Artist shows how her sound is resonating with audiences across the globe.

The inclusion of both Ayra Starr and Tyla in multiple categories highlights the growing international appeal of African music. Both artists represent a new generation of African talent, pushing Afrobeats and African-inspired sounds into the mainstream.

In the Best African Act category, Ayra Starr and Tyla will face competition from Nigerian stars Asake and Tanzanian icon Diamond Platnumz, alongside South African DJ duo DBN Gogo. This category showcases the diversity and strength of African music as it continues to reach new heights worldwide.

While African artists are making waves, other global superstars dominate the nominations list. American singer Taylor Swift leads with a total of seven nominations, including Best Artist, Best Video, and Best Song. She is followed by other global heavyweights like Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Post Malone, all of whom are nominated in the top categories.

Some of the key categories include:

• Best New Artist: Ayra Starr, Tyla, LE SSERAFIM, Benson Boone, Teddy Swims
• Best Afrobeats: Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, Asake, Rema, Tems, Tyla
• Best R&B: SZA, Kehlani, Tinashe, Usher, Tyla
• Best Artist: Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, Post Malone, Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter

The MTV EMAs have long been a celebration of global music talent, and the 2024 edition marks the 30th anniversary of the event. Over the years, the awards have evolved to include a wider range of musical styles, reflecting the diversity of global music today. With categories like Best Afrobeats and Best African Act, the EMAs are now recognizing the contributions of African artists to the global music landscape.

The event will be held at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena, a venue known for hosting large-scale music events, and it promises to be an exciting night for fans and artists alike.

As Ayra Starr and Tyla prepare for the big night, fans across Africa and beyond are eagerly awaiting the outcome. Their multiple nominations are a testament to their hard work and talent, as well as the growing influence of African music on the world stage. Whether they take home the awards or not, their presence in these top categories signals a bright future for African artists in the global music industry.

With the MTV EMAs just around the corner, all eyes will be on these two stars as they represent Africa at one of the biggest music events of the year.