Tyla’s “Is It” Wins Big at 2026 NAACP Image Awards

South African sensation Tyla has won the 2026 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding International Song with her infectious hit “Is It.” The accolade was announced on February 25 as part of the pre-televised portion of the 57th NAACP Image Awards.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, Tyla’s ascent from local standout to international headliner has been swift and remarkable. Blending amapiano rhythms with pop sensibilities, her music has transcended borders and captivated listeners around the world. “Is It,” released in mid-2025 via FAX and Epic Records, showcases this genre-blurring appeal. Its rhythmic hooks and vibrant energy helped it climb streaming charts globally, accumulating tens of millions of plays and becoming one of the year’s most celebrated tracks.

The NAACP Image Awards honour outstanding artistic achievements by people of colour across music, film, television, and literature, and Tyla’s win underscores the expanding footprint of African artists on the world stage. In the Outstanding International Song category, she stood out against a formidable lineup that included heavyweights like Burna Boy (“Love”), Davido featuring Omah Lay (“With You”), Tiwa Savage (“You4Me”), and Skip Marley (“In Our Sight”).

This award adds to Tyla’s growing trophy cabinet. She has already secured two Grammy Awards, a testament to her wide-ranging impact and continues to break new ground for South African artists internationally. Both fans and industry peers celebrated the news across social media, lauding Tyla for her talent, work ethic, and role as an ambassador of African sound on the global stage.

The 2026 NAACP Image Awards ceremony, hosted by Deon Cole and broadcast later this weekend from Pasadena, California, will continue to spotlight excellence across the arts, from Kendrick Lamar and Cardi B to visionary creators reshaping culture.

As Tyla continues her upward trajectory, the 24-year-old artist embodies a generation of African musicians whose influence is reshaping global entertainment. With her dynamic sound and growing list of international accolades, Tyla is proving that the world not only listens to African music, it celebrates it.