Tyla received Best Afrobeats at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards on Wednesday, September 11, for her hit song “Water.”
While winning the Moonperson award, she passionately celebrated her African ancestry and challenged the “tendency to group all African artists under Afrobeats.”
However, a humorous moment during her address sparked some conversation on social media.
Tyla added a humorous touch by jokingly asking presenters Halle Bailey and Lil Nas X to assist hold her Moonperson award, claiming she wasn’t strong enough to handle it.
However, the playful request generated considerable debate on X (previously Twitter), with admirers questioning whether she was being disrespectful.
In a video circulating online, several viewers felt Halle Bailey hesitated until Lil Nas X stepped in to help. User @_loveRachel_ commented, “Halle said she is NOT the help!” Another user, @ArielEsq305, added, “That was so annoying and why people don’t like her now… they only gave her that award because Burna Boy wasn’t there.”
Tyla promptly dispelled the rumors, turning to X to clarify the matter. “You guys make everything weird…” I wasn’t asking my girlfriend Halle… We’re just females; STFU I WON A VMAAAA,” she said, putting an end to the speculation. Her followers sprang to her rescue, with one user, @lookinass, responding, “You know they love being mad at nothing,” and another, @nobydy661, adding, “Sorry they’re taking away from your moment!”
Despite the buzz, Tyla’s historic victory as the first female African musician to win a VMA remained the highlight of her memorable night.
You know they love being mad at nothing
— d$ (@lookinass) September 12, 2024
