MTV abruptly removes the popular Afrobeats category from its upcoming 2026 awards show
On August 20, 2026, reports confirmed that MTV officially discontinued the Best Afrobeats category for the 2026 Video Music Awards. The sudden move ends a three-year run that previously saw global stars like Rema and Tyla secure historic wins on the prominent stage.
MTV shocked the global music scene on August 20, 2026. The network quietly dropped the Best Afrobeats category. This sudden move affects the upcoming 2026 Video Music Awards.
The decision halts a major platform for African artists. Fans quickly noticed the missing genre on the new ballot.
A historic short run
Organizers first introduced the dedicated award at the 2023 VMAs. The debut marked a massive milestone for the genre. It highlighted the rapid global growth of African music.
Rema and Selena Gomez claimed the inaugural trophy. They won the prize for their hit “Calm Down (Remix).”
South African singer Tyla then dominated the space. She took home the award in 2024 for “Water.” The song gained intense fame through a TikTok dance challenge.
Tyla secures a final win
Tyla returned to the MTV stage in 2025. She secured a rare victory with her song “Push 2 Start.”
This back-to-back win cemented her status as a global star. Now, the 2026 show will not feature the category. Sources confirm that MTV has not explained the sudden removal.
