2026 Grammys: Influencer VeryDarkMan Says He Wanted Davido to Win Best African Music Performance

Nigerian social media influencer Vincent Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has expressed disappointment at South African singer Tyla winning the Best African Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammy Awards.

Tyla took home the award for her hit song ‘Push 2 Start’ on Sunday night, marking her second win in this category since she first claimed it in 2024 with ‘Water’.

VDM, known for his outspoken views on African music, posted a video immediately after the announcement, saying he had hoped Davido would win. He argued that a Davido win would have created a sense of balance among the “Afrobeats Big 3”, noting that Burna Boy and Wizkid have already secured Grammy victories.

“Tyla again? Anyways, shoutout to Davido, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr and Wizkid. You guys put in the efforts. However, I will be very honest, I really wanted Davido to win so as to create balance. I like the cruise between the fans of the Afrobeats Big 3 on social media. The entries from Nigeria were very good songs but it is what it is,” VDM said.

The Best African Music Performance category has historically been won by female artists since its inception, with Tyla continuing that trend in 2026.

The award sparked conversations online, with fans debating the growing global influence of Afrobeats and the representation of Nigerian artists at the Grammys.