The 68th Annual Grammy Awards are almost here, and fans across the world are buzzing with predictions. It’s that time of year when music lovers stay up into the early hours of Monday morning, fueled by caffeine and anticipation, to see their favourites take home the coveted gold. This year’s ceremony is particularly special for Africa, as the Best African Music Performance category returns for its third year, proving that the continent’s sound is being celebrated on the global stage.
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The ceremony takes place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, 1 February 2026. Hosting for the sixth and final time is the brilliant Trevor Noah. Knowing this is his farewell gig, fans are expecting plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and perhaps a few surprises before he takes his final bow.
Africa’s Finest Take the Spotlight
For Nigerian and African audiences, the stakes are high. The Best African Music Performance category features a star-studded lineup, including Burna Boy (“Love”), Davido featuring Omah Lay (“With You”), Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid (“Gimme Dat”), South Africa’s Tyla (“PUSH 2 START”), and Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo (“Hope & Love”). Burna Boy also eyes additional glory with a nomination for Best Global Music Album for No Sign of Weakness.
Who’s Performing?
This year’s performances promise a mix of pop icons and groundbreaking collaborations. Lady Gaga, nominated for seven awards including Album of the Year for MAYHEM, leads the roster alongside Justin Bieber, making his highly anticipated return to the Grammy stage after four years. Fans can also look forward to sets from Sabrina Carpenter, Tyler, the Creator, Rosé, and a special joint performance by Clipse and Pharrell Williams.
Keeping with tradition, all eight Best New Artist nominees, including Addison Rae, KATSEYE, and Leon Thomas, will deliver a high-energy medley. The night will also feature tributes, with Ms. Lauryn Hill honouring D’Angelo and Roberta Flack, and a rock salute to Ozzy Osbourne featuring Post Malone, Slash, and Chad Smith.
Star-Studded Presenters
The presenter lineup is equally impressive, including Harry Styles, Charli XCX, Chappell Roan, Queen Latifah, Teyana Taylor, and Jeff Goldblum, ensuring the evening is packed with glamour and excitement.
When and Where to Watch
The main ceremony kicks off at 02:00 WAT on Monday, 2 February. For die-hard fans, the Grammy Premiere Ceremony, where many African categories are announced, starts earlier at 21:30 WAT on Sunday and can be streamed live on the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel or live.GRAMMY.com.
For television viewers, DStv subscribers can tune in to 1Magic (Channel 103) or M-Net (Channel 101) for the live broadcast. Streaming fans can watch on Paramount+ (Premium subscribers), and real-time updates, including the “Best Dressed” galleries, will be available on BellaNaija.
With African music in the spotlight and international stars sharing the stage, this year’s Grammys promise a celebration of talent, culture, and global collaboration.
BellaNaija
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