Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has officially become a voting member of the Recording Academy, granting him the privilege to vote in the upcoming 2026 Grammy Awards. This significant achievement marks a new chapter in his career, allowing him to participate in shaping the outcomes of the prestigious music awards. Davido expressed his enthusiasm for this role, calling it a "game-changer" and emphasizing the impact of voting in the award season.
The Recording Academy's voting period for the 2026 Grammy Awards is set to begin soon. Davido's induction follows his 2025 Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for his collaboration "Sensational," featuring Chris Brown and Lojay. While "Sensational" did not win, Davido's nomination and subsequent membership highlight his growing global influence and the increasing recognition of African music on the international stage.
Membership in the Recording Academy, the organization behind the Grammy Awards, is comprised of music industry professionals. Voting members play a critical role in selecting award winners. Typically, membership requires peer recommendations and verifiable professional credits, demonstrating an active career in music creation or support. Importantly, membership is not restricted to U.S. residents, and artists like Davido, who have received multiple Grammy nominations, are often considered for voting membership, waiving the usual credit requirements.
Davido's appointment as a voting member is seen as a significant step in the growing global appreciation for African music. The recent introduction of the Best African Music Performance category at the Grammys itself reflects this trend. His participation is expected to bring valuable perspectives to the recognition and celebration of African music worldwide, further amplifying the voices of artists from the continent who are increasingly making their mark globally, following in the footsteps of artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems.