South Africa’s Tyla Takes Home Top Honors at MTV EMAs
South African newcomer, Tyla, made a splash at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards in Manchester, England, picking up three major awards: Best Afrobeats Act, Best R&B Act, and Best African Act. The rising star also wowed the audience with a lively performance of her hit “Water” and new track “Push 2 Start” at the Co-op Live venue, surrounded by dancers.
Tyla, who was nominated in four categories, including Best New Act, earned accolades for her contributions to Afrobeats and R&B.
Taylor Swift emerged as the biggest winner of the night, securing Best Artist, Best Live Act, Best US Act, and Best Video.
The ceremony, hosted by British singer Rita Ora, took a somber turn as Ora honored Liam Payne, the One Direction star who tragically passed away on October 16, 2024, after a fall in Argentina. Ora, who had a close bond with Payne, paid tribute, saying, “He had the biggest heart and left such a mark on this world.”
Meanwhile, hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes received the EMAs Global Icon Award, presented by British rapper Little Simz. Rhymes, who marked 34 years in the music industry, expressed his gratitude, sharing that this was his first MTV award, making the moment all the more special.
