The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) have dropped the Best Afrobeats category from this year’s ceremony, marking a major change just three years after the category made its debut.
MTV announced the nominees for the 2026 VMAs on Tuesday, but the Best Afrobeats category was missing from the list.
Why the Category Is Causing Debate
The Best Afrobeats category debuted in 2023, with Rema and Selena Gomez taking the first award for their global hit “Calm Down.”
Tyla then won the award in both 2024 and 2025 with “Water” and “Push 2 Start,” respectively.
Her back-to-back victories sparked criticism from music fans and industry observers, particularly in Nigeria.
Some questioned why a South African artist whose music draws heavily from Amapiano received an award specifically labelled Afrobeats.
The controversy became even louder after Tyla’s second win, with critics accusing the VMAs of misrepresenting the genre.
MTV Has Not Explained the Decision
The organisers have not publicly explained why they removed the Best Afrobeats category from the 2026 awards.
However, the timing has already led to speculation that the decision could be connected to the controversy surrounding the category and the wider debate over how African music gets classified on international award platforms.
The removal also means Tyla will not get another chance to defend the title this year, despite her hit “Chanel” being a potential contender.
Burna Boy and Tems Still Make the List
While the Afrobeats category has disappeared, Nigerian stars Burna Boy and Tems have secured nominations in other categories.
Tems received a Best R&B nomination for her collaboration with British rapper Dave on “Raindance.”
Burna Boy earned two nominations for “Dai Dai,” his World Cup collaboration with Shakira. The song is competing for Best Collaboration and Best Latin.
The 2026 MTV VMAs will take place on September 27 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.