Nigerian superstar Davido, featuring Omah Lay, has been awarded Best African Song of the Year at the 27th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) for their hit collaboration ‘With You’. The prestigious award was announced on Saturday, May 9, 2026, during a star-studded ceremony held at the Grand Arena in Accra, Ghana. This win highlights the significant influence of Nigerian music across West Africa and reinforces Davido’s strong connection with the Ghanaian music scene.
A Competitive Landscape
The Best African Song category at the TGMAs is renowned for its intense competition, showcasing the most impactful non-Ghanaian tracks that have resonated with audiences over the past year. Davido and Omah Lay’s ‘With You’ triumphed over a strong field of continental heavyweights.
Nominees included ‘Shalli Popi’ by Shallipopi & Burna Boy, ‘Kelebu’ by Rema, ‘Nakupenda’ by Tyla, and ‘Joy is Coming’ by TXC, Davido, Shoday, Scotts Maphuma ft Zlatan & AI. The presence of these artists underscores the high caliber of music recognized by the TGMAs.
The Winning Formula
Music analysts attribute the success of ‘With You’ to the seamless blend of Davido’s energetic performance and Omah Lay’s smooth, melodic Afrobeats style. This unique synergy created a track that quickly became a fan favorite.
Upon its release, ‘With You’ dominated Ghanaian airwaves and nightlife, swiftly climbing digital streaming charts. It maintained top positions for several weeks, demonstrating its widespread appeal and cultural impact within Ghana.
The award specifically honors songs that have made a substantial impact on the Ghanaian music landscape from international artists. The production quality and pervasive presence of ‘With You’ in social settings were key factors in its selection by the award committee.
Industry Recognition and Impact
Although Davido was unable to attend the ceremony, his management team accepted the award on his behalf. They conveyed deep appreciation to the Ghanaian public for their support and recognition.
This victory for ‘With You’ is a testament to the borderless nature of contemporary Afrobeats music. The song’s success further cements Omah Lay’s status as a gifted songwriter and producer.
For Davido, the award reaffirms his enduring position as a dominant force in the African music industry. His consistent output and ability to connect with diverse audiences across the continent remain unparalleled.
Looking Ahead
The continued success of Nigerian artists at the TGMAs suggests an ongoing trend of Afrobeats’ expanding regional and global influence. The industry will be watching to see how this momentum translates into future collaborations and cross-continental music exchanges. Furthermore, Omah Lay’s songwriting prowess, highlighted by this award, positions him as an artist to watch for continued innovation within the Afrobeats genre.
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