The Recording Academy has unveiled the nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, kicking off one of music’s biggest nights of anticipation.

As African acts continue their global rise with strong representation this year, there’s been a mixed reaction online over who deserved a spot and who didn’t.

Burna Boy’s No Sign of Weakness — which, despite mixed reception and debate over its impact, earned him his 11th Grammy nod with a nomination for Best Global Music Album. He goes head-to-head with Senegalese legend Youssou N’Dour, whose Éclairer le monde (Light the World) reflects his lasting influence as one of Africa’s most celebrated voices.

In the Best African Music Performance category, the nominations reflect the range and rhythm of the continent’s sound. The lineup features Burna Boy’s “Love,” Davido and Omah Lay’s “With You,” Ayra Starr and Wizkid’s “Gimme Dat,” Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin’s “Hope & Love,” and Tyla’s “Push 2 Start.”

Of course, African Grammys mama and Beninese icon Angélique Kidjo returns to the Grammys with a nomination for Best Global Music Performance for “Jerusalema,” extending her record as one of the most decorated African artists in Grammy history.

These nominations serve as more evidence to the narrative despite any debate that Africa is playing an undeniable role in shaping the global music conversation, showcasing artists who continue to influence, innovate, and define contemporary sound.