Tyler ICU’s Europe Music Awards Nomination: A Milestone for Amapiano
Written by Brooklyn Masuku on 12 October, 2023
The MTV European Music Awards (EMAs) have always been a platform that recognizes and celebrates the best in music from around the globe. This year, the spotlight shines on South Africa’s Amapiano sensation, Tyler ICU. The ‘M’nike’ hit-maker, whose real name is Austin Baloyi, has been a force to reckon with in the Amapiano scene. His unique sound, infectious beats, and ability to produce chart-topping hits have made him a household name in South Africa and beyond.
Exactly a month before the grand event scheduled for November 5 in Paris, the MTV EMAs unveiled their list of nominees. Among the illustrious names, Tyler ICU stands out, marking a significant achievement for the Amapiano genre. The nomination comes on the back of the viral success of his hit Amapiano single, ‘M’nike.’ This track has not only dominated the charts in South Africa but has also made waves internationally, showcasing the global appeal of the Amapiano sound.
Tyler is nominated under the category Best African Act alongside the likes of Diamond Platnumz, Burna Boy, Asake and Libianca. In acknowledgement of afrobeats’ success globally, organisers have also introduced a brand new category, Best Afrobeats for its 2023 edition. Nigerian musicians Davido, Rema, Burna Boy, Asake, Ayra Starr and French sensation Aya Nakamura are the category’s inaugural candidates.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS FOR “MNIKE”
Apple Music
#1 South Africa
#1 Botswana
#22 Ghana
#3 Kenya
#1 Swaziland
#5 Uganda
#1 Zimbabwe
The track has reached #1 in 5 markets and top 5 in 3 more! It is added to key playlists such as Amapiano Lifestyle (27 markets), Mzansi Hits (25 markets) and Africa Now (25 markets).
Spotify
Peaked at #1 in South Africa, Mozambique
Peaked at #2 in Zambia,
Peaked at #3 in Beijing, China
Peaked at #8 in Tanzania
Peaked at #13 in Ghana
Peaked #31 Worldwide
Peaked at #38 in Portugal
On Spotify the track has been #1 in South Africa for over 15 weeks! The track has been added to African Heat (1.3M followers) in the #3 position, as well a playlists such as We Everywhere, Hot Hits South Africa, Hot Hits Kenya, AMAPIANO grooves, Afro Party Anthems and Motive.
Shazam
Peaked at #1 in South Africa,
Peaked at #1 in Mozambique
Peaked at #2 in Zambia,
Peaked at #3 in Beijing, China
Peaked at #8 in Tanzania
Peaked at #13 in Ghana
Peaked #31 Worldwide
Peaked at #38 in Portugal
TylerICU’s influence is not just limited to his music but also his collaborations and partnerships with various brands and events. His association with CottonFestJHB, a popular music festival, is a clear indicator of his growing prominence in the industry.
TylerICU’s journey in the music industry is marked by his exceptional talent, collaborations, and a growing fan base. As he continues to make his mark, fans and industry experts alike eagerly await his next move.
