“They’re Mocking Nigerians” – Mixed reactions as Grammy plays Fela Kuti’s ‘Water’ while announcing Tyla’s ‘Water’ as winner

During the 66th edition of the Grammy Awards, the organizers made a notable blunder by playing the late Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s track ‘Water’ while announcing South African singer Tyla’s ‘Water’ as the winner of the first Best African Music Performance category.

The Recording Academy declared Tyla’s ‘Water’ as the winner, surpassing tracks by Nigerian artists such as Davido’s ‘Unavailable,’ Asake’s ‘Amapiano,’ Burna Boy’s ‘City Boys,’ and Ayra Starr’s ‘Rush.’ However, following the announcement, instead of playing Tyla’s track, Fela’s timeless classic, ‘Water No Get Enemy,’ was played.

This mistake triggered reactions from fans and music critics, especially in Nigeria, with many criticizing the Recording Academy for the apparent blunder.

Fela Kuti’s “Water” was played when Tyla was announced winner of “Best African Music Performance” at the #Grammys 👀 pic.twitter.com/hzjjynvBKA

— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) February 4, 2024

See some reactions below;

AlvinAdegoke penned: “Abi Grammy think say nah tyla water be this 🫠😹.”

iam_Daposh noted: “You sure say no be Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s “Water” Tyla submit to #Grammy’s.”

adepromise said: “Abi Tyla submitted Fela Water to Win Grammy. We need to do our investigation.”

Mayo6Tee reacted: “They Submitted which Water lol 😂 🤣🤣😂😂 .. @RecordingAcad you’ve done it again.”

bruzieee wrote: “This is pure foolishness, why use Fela song titled Water? Are they ashamed to play the song that got the award?”