A moment for music, not politics
When Tyla picked up her second consecutive Grammy for Best African Music Performance with her hit Push 2 Start, fans across South Africa erupted in celebration. The 24-year-old singer, already a household name with global acclaim, had done it again, solidifying her place on the world stage and putting South African music firmly in the spotlight.
Social media was buzzing, timelines were flooded with congratulations, and young artists hailed her success as proof that international recognition is possible from home. It was a moment to pause, cheer, and celebrate a milestone earned through talent, grit, and perseverance.
Or at least, that’s how it was supposed to be.
Can we congratulate an artist without the political branding? Has Tyla endorsed the EFF? https://t.co/d7Gs1R5ClL
— Bianca van Wyk (@BiancavanWyk16) February 3, 2026
Political parties enter the conversation
Almost immediately, the mood shifted when political parties jumped into the mix. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) shared a stylised graphic of Tyla against the party’s signature red backdrop, complete with their logo, 2026 slogan “the year of victory or death,” and links to their platforms.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) followed suit, using an image of Tyla holding her Grammy over a blue background emblazoned with the party logo. While the DA praised her achievement as a proud South African moment, many on X (formerly Twitter) were unimpressed.
Netizens questioned the ethics and relevance of using Tyla’s personal accomplishment as political material.
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“Can we congratulate an artist without the political branding? Has Tyla endorsed the EFF?” wrote @BiancavanWyk16.
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@DankiBabaMaAda added, “How shameless are these political parties.”
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@DPRyoongi was even more blunt: “Ew… keep her name off your filthy, disgusting page.”
The backlash highlighted a growing concern among South Africans: moments of cultural pride should not be weaponised for political gain.
Can we congratulate an artist without the political branding? Has Tyla endorsed the EFF? https://t.co/d7Gs1R5ClL
— Bianca van Wyk (@BiancavanWyk16) February 3, 2026
ew… keep her name off your filthy, disgusting page. https://t.co/mvYQbM812S
— cyn⁴ 💛 (@DPRyoongi) February 3, 2026
Genuine praise stands out
Not every political figure jumped on the branding bandwagon. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula congratulated Tyla directly, keeping the focus on her achievement.
“Congratulations to one of our own, @Tyllaaaaaaa, for winning the Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance. This now makes her a two-time winner of the awards. Make them sweat!” he wrote, centering the message on the artist rather than the party.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie offered a similar sentiment, acknowledging Tyla’s contribution to South African culture. “Tyla continues to make history and to fly the South African flag high on the world’s biggest cultural stages,” he said, adding that her win demonstrates to young people that “global excellence is possible from right here at home.”
McKenzie emphasised that Tyla’s music is “telling a South African story to the world, and the world is listening,” highlighting the broader cultural significance beyond any political agenda.
Media Statement
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has congratulated South African music sensation Tyla on her latest Grammy Award win, marking yet another historic milestone in her rapidly blossoming global career.
More:https://t.co/fbGd873rK4 pic.twitter.com/3F9a6pgL69
— Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (@SportArtsCultur) February 2, 2026
Lessons in celebration
Tyla’s second Grammy win is more than a trophy — it’s a symbol of South African talent on the global stage. While some tried to co-opt the moment for political gain, fans and many cultural commentators have reminded the public that certain victories belong solely to the individual and the community that supports them.
For Tyla, the focus remains on her music, her creative journey, and the inspiration she provides to countless young South Africans dreaming of international recognition. Her success is not a political tool — it’s a celebration of resilience, artistry, and national pride.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X {@therealcjpro}
