Over the past decade, Nigerian music has gone from a continental sensation to a global force — and nowhere is this influence more evident than on the Grammy stage. The country’s finest talents are not just performing across continents; they are consistently earning nods from the Recording Academy, a recognition once seen as beyond reach for African music.
From legends like Sade Adu and King Sunny Ade to modern giants like Burna Boy, Tems, and Wizkid, Nigerian artistes have turned their sound into a global language. As the 2026 Grammy Awards approach, here’s a closer look at the Nigerian stars — at home and in the diaspora — who have earned the most Grammy nominations over the years.
Burna Boy – 13 Nominations
When it comes to Grammy recognition, Burna Boy stands alone at the top. The self-acclaimed “African Giant” has received 13 nominations, making him the most-nominated Nigerian artiste in Grammy history.
His first major nod came in 2020 for African Giant, followed by a historic win for Twice as Tall in 2021, which earned Best Global Music Album. Since then, Burna Boy has maintained a strong presence with nominations for hits like Last Last, Alone, and City Boys. His versatility has even seen him cross into categories like Best Melodic Rap Performance for Sittin’ on Top of the World.
With fresh nominations in 2026 for No Sign of Weakness and Love, Burna Boy’s dominance on the global stage shows no sign of slowing down.
Sade Adu – 9 Nominations
Long before Afrobeats became a global brand, Sade Adu was carrying Nigeria’s flag at the Grammys. The British-Nigerian soul legend has earned nine nominations over her illustrious career, including a win for Lovers Rock in 2002 under Best Pop Vocal Album.
Her smooth, timeless voice and soulful production have made songs like No Ordinary Love, Soldier of Love, and Babyfather classics. Her recent 2026 nomination for Young Lion further proves that her music continues to transcend generations.
Tems – 8 Nominations
Tems has risen swiftly to become one of Nigeria’s most Grammy-recognized female artistes, with eight nominations and multiple wins to her name.
Her breakout collaboration with Wizkid on Essence earned her first Grammy nod, while Wait for You with Future and Drake secured her two Grammy wins in 2023. Subsequent nominations for Lift Me Up (with Rihanna) and Love Me Jeje have solidified her status as a global powerhouse. Tems’ combination of ethereal vocals and emotional storytelling continues to captivate the Recording Academy.
Wizkid – 6 Nominations
Wizkid remains one of the most influential figures in Afrobeats, and his Grammy record backs it up. With six nominations and one win for Brown Skin Girl alongside Beyoncé, Wizkid has helped bridge African and Western pop music.
His Made in Lagos album and its hit single Essence brought Afrobeats into mainstream America, earning two major nominations in 2022. More recently, his collaborations MMS (with Asake) and Gimme Dat (with Ayra Starr) have kept his name among Grammy contenders.
Femi Kuti – 6 Nominations
Carrying the Afrobeat legacy of his legendary father, Femi Kuti has earned six Grammy nominations since his debut recognition in 2003. Albums like Fight to Win, Africa for Africa, and Legacy+ (with Made Kuti) have all been acknowledged in global music categories.
Femi’s socially conscious lyrics and vibrant instrumentation ensure that the Grammy stage continues to echo with authentic African sounds
Davido – 5 Nominations
Davido’s entry into Grammy territory came later than some of his peers, but he’s wasted no time making his mark. With five nominations, he’s proven that commercial hits can still earn critical acclaim.
His 2024 album Timeless scored three nominations, while later collaborations like Sensational (with Chris Brown and Lojay) and With You (with Omah Lay) added to his growing list. Davido’s global collaborations and showmanship continue to elevate Afrobeats’ international appeal.
King Sunny Ade – 2 Nominations
As one of Nigeria’s earliest global music ambassadors, King Sunny Ade set the standard with two Grammy nominations for Synchro System (1984) and Odu (1999). His pioneering work in juju music paved the way for generations of Nigerian musicians to reach international recognition.
Asake – 2 Nominations
Rising star Asake has quickly joined the Grammy conversation with two nominations, first for Amapiano (with Olamide) in 2024 and later for MMS (with Wizkid) in 2025. His high-energy blend of street pop and spiritual rhythm has made him one of Afrobeats’ most exciting exports.
Ayra Starr – 2 Nominations
Dubbed the “Sabi Girl,” Ayra Starr continues to make waves with two Grammy nominations for Rush (2024) and Gimme Dat (with Wizkid) in 2026. Her youthful confidence, vocal range, and boundary-pushing sound signal a bright future for Afrobeats’ next generation.
From Burna Boy’s historic streak to Ayra Starr’s new-age brilliance, Nigeria’s presence at the Grammys is no longer an exception — it’s a norm. Each nomination is more than recognition; it’s a testament to how Nigerian music has become one of the world’s most powerful cultural exports.
The rhythm of Lagos, the soul of Africa, and the global pulse now move in sync — and the Grammys are listening.
