Complete List Of African Artists Who Have Won The Grammy Awards: Biography, Net Worth, Discography, And Career Achievements

The Grammy Awards, one of the most prestigious accolades in the music industry, celebrate outstanding contributions across various genres. Over the years, several African artists have not only gained global recognition but have also won Grammys, further establishing Africa's presence in world music. This post offers an in-depth look at these Grammy-winning African musicians, their biographies, net worth, notable works, and key career achievements.

 

1. Miriam Makeba (South Africa)

Biography:

Miriam Makeba, fondly known as "Mama Africa," was born on March 4, 1932, in Johannesburg, South Africa. She was a singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist, best known for using her music to fight apartheid. Makeba was a strong advocate for human rights and social justice, becoming one of Africa's most iconic and influential voices. She passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of music and activism.

 

Net Worth:

At the peak of her career, Makeba's net worth was estimated at $50 million. This came from album sales, live performances, and endorsements.

 

Discography:

Pata Pata (1967)

Sangoma (1988)

Homeland (2000)

Career Achievements:

In 1965, Miriam Makeba made history as the first African artist to win a Grammy Award, for her collaboration with Harry Belafonte on the album An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba. The album highlighted the struggles of South Africans under apartheid. She became an international icon, touring globally and collaborating with other influential musicians such as Paul Simon.

 

2. Angelique Kidjo (Benin)

Biography:

Born on July 14, 1960, in Ouidah, Benin, Angelique Kidjo is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and activist. Known for her electrifying stage presence and powerful voice, Kidjo's music blends traditional African sounds with Western influences, creating a distinctive and captivating style. Over her career, she has become a global ambassador for African music.

 

Net Worth:

Angelique Kidjo's net worth is estimated at $20 million, a result of her successful music career, performances, and humanitarian work.

 

Discography:

Logozo (1991)

Djin Djin (2007)

Celia (2019)

Career Achievements:

Kidjo has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Best World Music Album for Eve (2014), Sings (2015), and Celia (2019). Her ability to cross musical genres and her involvement in social causes such as gender equality and education make her one of Africa's most respected musicians. She has performed with legendary artists like Alicia Keys, Bono, and Peter Gabriel.

 

3. Hugh Masekela (South Africa)

Biography:

Hugh Masekela was born on April 4, 1939, in Witbank, South Africa. A jazz trumpeter, composer, and anti-apartheid activist, Masekela’s music often conveyed messages of resistance and hope. His contributions to jazz and world music earned him global recognition, making him one of South Africa's most celebrated musicians.

 

Net Worth:

Masekela's net worth was approximately $2 million at the time of his death in 2018, mainly derived from his music career and live performances.

 

Discography:

Grazing in the Grass (1968)

Hope (1994)

Still Grazing (2004)

Career Achievements:

Masekela won a Grammy in 1992 for his collaboration on Best Jazz Vocal Album. His global hit Grazing in the Grass topped charts in the U.S. and around the world. He was an instrumental figure in the fight against apartheid, using his music as a voice for change. Masekela collaborated with artists such as Paul Simon on the Graceland tour.

 

4. Ladysmith Black Mambazo (South Africa)

Biography:

Formed by Joseph Shabalala in 1960, Ladysmith Black Mambazo is an all-male choral group from South Africa, renowned for their intricate harmonies and traditional Zulu sound. The group gained international fame after collaborating with Paul Simon on his 1986 album Graceland.

 

Net Worth:

The group’s collective net worth is estimated at $20 million, accrued through album sales, live performances, and worldwide tours.

 

Discography:

Shaka Zulu (1987)

Raise Your Spirit Higher (2004)

Songs from a Zulu Farm (2011)

Career Achievements:

Ladysmith Black Mambazo has won five Grammy Awards, starting with their first win in 1988 for Shaka Zulu. Their collaborations with Paul Simon introduced African music to a global audience. They continue to tour and record, spreading traditional South African music around the world.

 

5. Youssou N'Dour (Senegal)

Biography:

Youssou N'Dour was born on October 1, 1959, in Dakar, Senegal. He is a singer, songwriter, and political activist, widely regarded as one of the most famous African musicians in history. His music blends mbalax (a traditional Senegalese genre) with pop, reggae, and other international styles.

 

Net Worth:

N'Dour’s net worth is estimated at $145 million, making him one of the wealthiest musicians in Africa. His wealth comes from music sales, concerts, and his media business.

 

Discography:

The Lion (1989)

Joko: The Link (2000)

Egypt (2004)

Career Achievements:

In 1995, N'Dour won a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album. He is known for his collaboration with Neneh Cherry on the hit song 7 Seconds. Beyond his music career, he served as Senegal's Minister of Tourism and continues to use his platform to address social issues.

 

6. Wizkid (Nigeria)

Biography:

Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, was born on July 16, 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria. Wizkid is a pioneer of the Afrobeats genre and one of the most internationally recognized African artists. He started his career in 2010 with the hit single Holla at Your Boy.

 

Net Worth:

Wizkid’s net worth is estimated at $30 million, largely earned through music, endorsements, and brand partnerships.

 

Discography:

Superstar (2011)

Ayo (2014)

Made in Lagos (2020)

Career Achievements:

Wizkid won a Grammy in 2021 for Best Music Video for his collaboration on Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl. He was also the first African artist to sell out London’s O2 Arena for three consecutive nights. Wizkid's global influence in shaping Afrobeats has made him a cultural ambassador for Nigerian music.

 

7. Burna Boy (Nigeria)

Biography:

Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, was born on July 2, 1991, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. His sound is a unique fusion of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and pop, which has helped him gain international acclaim.

 

Net Worth:

Burna Boy’s net worth is estimated at $20 million, with income from music sales, concerts, and endorsements.

 

Discography:

African Giant (2019)

Twice as Tall (2020)

Love, Damini (2022)

Career Achievements:

Burna Boy won the Grammy for Best Global Music Album in 2021 for Twice as Tall. He is considered one of the biggest names in African music today, and his influence has expanded across continents. His live performances, including at Madison Square Garden, have further cemented his status as a global superstar.

 

8. Tyla (South Africa)

Biography:

Tyla, born Tyla Seethal, is an emerging South African singer and songwriter. She gained international recognition with her hit song Water, which showcases her distinctive voice and Afro-pop sound.

 

Net Worth:

Tyla’s net worth is currently estimated at $1 million, though it’s expected to rise as her career continues to grow.

 

Discography:

Getting Late (2021)

Water (2023)

Career Achievements:

Tyla recently won a Grammy Award for her hit song Water, making her one of the youngest South African artists to achieve this feat. With a growing fanbase and international collaborations, Tyla is poised for a promising future in the music industry.

 

9. Black Coffee (South Africa)

Biography:

Born Nkosinathi Maphumulo on March 11, 1976, Black Coffee is a renowned DJ and record producer from South Africa. He has played a key role in popularizing African house music across the globe and is one of the most respected figures in electronic music.

 

Net Worth:

Black Coffee’s net worth is estimated at $60 million, derived from his DJing, music production, and business ventures.

 

Discography:

Pieces of Me (2015)

Subconsciously (2021)

Home Brewed (2009)

Career Achievements:

Black Coffee’s rise to global prominence began with his unique blend of African house music infused with deep soul and jazz elements. He made history in 2022 when he won a Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album with Subconsciously. This win further solidified his status as one of the most influential DJs and producers in the world. In addition to his Grammy, Black Coffee has performed at major global music festivals like Coachella and Tomorrowland, becoming a cultural ambassador for African electronic music. He has also collaborated with international superstars like Drake, Usher, and Alicia Keys.

 

Black Coffee’s influence extends beyond music. He has launched numerous business ventures, including his record label Soulistic Music and his investment in the tech industry. He also uses his platform to give back to his community through his foundation, which supports African artists and entrepreneurs.

 

Conclusion

The Grammy Awards have served as a global stage for African artists to showcase their immense talent and cultural diversity. From legends like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela to contemporary stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid, African musicians continue to make waves in the global music industry. These Grammy winners have not only cemented their legacies but have also opened doors for future generations of African talent. As African music continues to gain international recognition, these artists represent the continent's rich musical heritage and bright future.