Ayra Starr and Wizkid have stepped into the global spotlight as their collaborative single “Gimme Dat” secures a nomination at the Grammy Awards 2026 in the Best African Music Performance category. The announcement has stirred excitement across Nigeria and the broader African music community, reinforcing the influence of Afrobeats as one of the fastest rising cultural movements in the world.
“Gimme Dat” was released on April 25, 2025, and the song quickly began to travel far beyond the continent. Listeners gravitated toward the natural synergy between Ayra Starr’s confident vibrance and Wizkid’s calm, melodic presence. Their voices blended smoothly on a production built with warm African rhythms shaped for global listeners. Within weeks, the record became a streaming favorite and evolved into one of the standout collaborations of the year.
This nomination marks a significant moment for both artists. Ayra Starr earned her first Grammy nomination at the 2024 Grammy Awards with her hit single “Rush.” The record was nominated for Best African Music Performance, and although she did not win, the recognition helped establish her as a leading young voice in Afrobeats. The 2026 nomination for “Gimme Dat” now becomes her second career Grammy nomination.
Wizkid brings a longer and more decorated Grammy history. He won his first Grammy at the 2021 Grammy Awards for his contribution to “Brown Skin Girl.” At the 2022 Grammy Awards, he received two more nominations for “Essence” in Best Global Music Performance and for “Made in Lagos” in Best Global Music Album. These nominations played a central role in pushing Afrobeats into global mainstream visibility. The 2026 nomination for “Gimme Dat” becomes his third career Grammy nomination.
The collaboration between Ayra Starr and Wizkid was celebrated from the moment it dropped. Fans praised the balance between Ayra’s expressive delivery and Wizkid’s seasoned vocal control. The record gained momentum across TikTok, radio playlists, and digital charts, and quickly became a cultural talking point among Afrobeats listeners.
Industry analysts believe that the nomination shows the Recording Academy’s growing recognition of African music and its global impact. The Best African Music Performance category has become one of the most competitive and culturally significant parts of the Grammy ceremony. The inclusion of “Gimme Dat” highlights the record’s influence and the evolving power of Nigerian music.
As the world awaits the 2026 Grammy ceremony, supporters of both artists are celebrating the achievement and hoping that the collaboration claims the award. Regardless of the final outcome, the nomination strengthens the global presence of African music and highlights a new era where Nigerian artists shape global sound with creativity, originality, and confidence.
“Gimme Dat” now stands as a strong symbol of African excellence. Its recognition at the Grammy Awards 2026 is a moment of pride for both artists and for music lovers across the continent.
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