South African Stars Tyla and Makhadzi Shine at BET Awards 2024
Tyla
South Africa made a spectacular showing at the BET Awards 2024, with 22-year-old Afrobeats pop sensation Tyla and Limpopo-born singer Makhadzi earning prestigious accolades, highlighting the growing influence of African artists on the global stage.
At the glittering ceremony held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California, Tyla dazzled both on the blue carpet and on stage. She was awarded Best New Artist and Best International Act, cementing her status as a rising star in the music industry.
Tyla graced the event in a bespoke black halter neck floor-length Versace gown, complemented by over $230,000 (R4.1m) worth of jewellery from Jared Atelier. Her accessories included diamond drop earrings featuring natural morganite and diamonds, and an emerald-cut diamond tennis bracelet valued at $115,000 (R2m).
“Thank you to BET for pushing the culture,” Tyla said in her acceptance speech.
Her electrifying performance of “Jump” from her self-titled debut album, released in March, captivated the audience. Tyla descended onto the stage in a rope trapeze swing, entering a giant cage surrounded by women painted to resemble parts of a tiger.
Her performance included dancers on giraffe-like stilts and guest appearances by American rapper Gunna and Jamaican dancehall artist Skillibeng.
Limpopo-born Makhadzi also had a night to remember, winning the BET Viewers Choice: Best International Act award. She triumphed over a competitive field that included Bellah, Cristale, Duquesa, Holly G, Jungeli, Oruam, Seyi Vibez, and fellow South African Tyler ICU.
(Pictured) Makhadzi
This year’s BET Awards highlighted the incredible talent emerging from Africa. Among the nominees for Best International Act were Asake, Ayra Starr, and Focalistic from Africa, as well as international artists Aya Nakamura (France), Bk’ (Brazil), Cleo Sol (UK), Karol Conká (Brazil), Raye (UK), Tiakola (France), and the eventual winner, Tyla.
In the Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act category, Makhadzi stood out among nominees from across the globe, including Bellah and Cristale from the UK, Duquesa and Oruam from Brazil, Holly G and Jungeli from France, Seyi Vibez and Tyler ICU from Africa.
The success of Tyla and Makhadzi at the BET Awards is a sign of the growing recognition and appreciation of African artists on the world stage.
Their achievements not only highlight their individual talents but also shine a spotlight on the vibrant and diverse musical landscape of Southern Africa.
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