Over the past decade, the Nigerian music industry has witnessed exponential growth. With this growth has come an increasing desire for international visibility and dominance and recognition at the Grammys. This prestigious event is considered music’s highest recognition.

Historic Night at the 65th Grammy Awards
On Sunday 5th February 2023 at the 65th Grammy Awards; Nigerian artist Tems; won the Best Melodic Rap Performance category. This was for her contribution to the hit song Wait for U with Future and Drake. In doing so, she made history becoming the first Nigerian female artist to win a Grammy.

It was a phenomenal feat for Tems. Particularly given that she started music professionally in 2018 after she quit her job to pursue a career in music. However, Nigeria is not new to the Grammys. 12 in total have clinched the awards to date in different categories either as original works or collaborative efforts.

Sade
Although Tems became the first Nigerian female artist to win a Grammy, it could be argued that the first Nigerian female singer (with British citizenship); to achieve the feat was British-Nigerian singer, Helen Folashade Adu. Simply known as Sade. Sade won her first Grammy in 1986.

She holds the title of the first artist of Nigerian origin to win the prestigious award. Her first Grammy was in 1986 for Best New Artist. This was followed in 1994 with No Ordinary Love for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.

She earned her third Grammy in 2002 with Lovers Rock in the Best Pop Vocal Album. Won her fourth in 2011 with Soldier of Love for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Total haul for the Ibadan-born, Ondo State indigene is four Grammys.

Sikiru Adepoju
The second Nigerian to win a Grammy is Sikiru Adepoju, a percussionist and recording artist. He first won a Grammy in 1991 as a part of Mickey Hart’s group Planet Drum. The title album won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album...

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