South African singer Tyla, famous for her global hit Water, scored a major win at the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, taking home Outstanding International Song for her July 2025 single Is It. The winner was announced just days before the main ceremony on Saturday, 28 February.
Tyla wowed on the red carpet in a black Jean Paul Gaultier dress, Christian Louboutin heels, and a sparkling diamond choker, landing her a spot on Vogue’s best-dressed list alongside stars like Sinners actress Wunmi Mosaku, Chase Infiniti, Teyana Taylor, Viola Davis, and Quinta Brunson.
Other winners included Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, who took home Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture, while the Sinners cast also swept awards. Michael B. Jordan was named Entertainer of the Year, and Ryan Coogler claimed Outstanding Directing and Writing in a Motion Picture.
For Tyla, this marks her second major award of 2026, following her Best African Music Performance win at the Grammys earlier this year.
At the ceremony, the 24-year-old teased her fans with news of her upcoming album, A-POP, saying:
“It’s going to be very different. It’s a new Tyla – not really a new Tyla, just me now. I just grew up. I was 21, 22, now I’m 24. I feel like a woman. I have other things to say. I have other vibes that I want to give… I’m so excited.”
Other South African stars who have shone at the NAACP Awards include comedian Trevor Noah, recognised for his book Born a Crime and work on The Daily Show.
With this win and her upcoming album, Tyla is clearly set for a massive year, further cementing her global presence in music.
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