Kenyan singer Victoria Kimani has come out in support of South African star Tyla after some critics questioned her Grammy win, calling out the rigid expectations placed on African artists.
Taking to her Instagram stories, Kimani argued against the narrow labelling of African music, noting that Africans “look and sound different.”
She praised Tyla and her team for breaking barriers for artists who don’t sing in traditional African languages, saying African creativity shouldn’t be boxed into a single sound.
Kimani revealed she faces similar criticism whenever she releases new music.
Fans and critics often urge her to “sing in Swahili” or claim her style is “not Kenyan.”
Despite blending Afro-pop, R&B, and pop for over a decade, she said pushback has been a constant.
Tyla’s Grammy win drew mixed reactions. While many celebrated her success, some Afrobeats enthusiasts expressed disappointment, expecting Nigerian superstar Davido to take home the award.
At Sunday night’s 68th Annual Grammy Awards, Tyla won Best African Music Performance for “Push 2 Start,” her second victory in the category.
She previously made history at the 66th Grammys as the inaugural winner with “Water.”
Kimani again applauded Tyla’s achievement, highlighting her ability to reach global audiences with a sound that blends Amapiano, pop, and R&B, without conforming to traditional linguistic expectations.
The 24-year-old South African edged out major contenders including Davido, Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo.
While celebrated globally, her win disappointed some Nigerian fans, as none of the country’s artists took home awards despite Afrobeats’ massive influence.
Reacting in Los Angeles, Tyla said, “This is insane; this is so insane! I’m just so lucky to be here, and I’m so proud to be African. I’m excited to see more of us over here.”