MTV VMAs scraps Afrobeats category

The MTV Video Music Awards have removed the "Best Afrobeats" category for the 2026 MTV VMAs, according to DAILY POST. The category, introduced in 2023, saw Rema and Selena Gomez's "Calm Down" win in its debut year. However, South African artist Tyla won the award consecutively in 2024 and 2025 with her songs "Water" and "Push 2 Start."

This decision has sparked controversy, with accusations of "misrepresentation" from Nigerians, who felt a non-Afrobeats artist was awarded the category. While the organizers have not yet provided a reason for its discontinuation, observers believe it is connected to the aforementioned allegations. Despite this, Nigerian artists Burna Boy and Tems received nominations at the 2026 MTV VMAs.

Burna Boy was nominated in the Best Collaboration and Best Latin categories for his song "Dai Dai" featuring Shakira, while Tems was nominated in the Best R&B category for her collaboration with Dave on "Raindance." Tyla's potential nomination for "Chanel" was cancelled, as the Best Afrobeats category was eliminated. The MTV VMAs are set to take place on September 27, 2026, at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, USA.