The much-anticipated Trace Awards 2025 has officially revealed its list of nominees, with Afrobeats powerhouses Rema, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr dominating the spotlight. These trailblazing artists are leading the charge in what promises to be a celebration of African and diaspora music at its finest.
This prestigious awards ceremony, scheduled for February 26, 2025, in the enchanting locale of Zanzibar, will serve as a platform to honor the exceptional talents shaping the continent’s music scene and its global influence. It is set to be a night of glamour, cultural pride, and extraordinary performances.
Rema, the dynamic young superstar, has emerged as a standout with an impressive six nominations. His nominations span key categories, including Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Best Collaboration, Best Music Video, Best Global African Artist, and Best Male Artist.
Rema’s innovative sound, captivating storytelling, and record-breaking hits have cemented his status as a global sensation. His groundbreaking achievements have not only garnered international acclaim but have also made him one of the top contenders for this year’s awards.
As fans and industry insiders eagerly await the event, the Trace Awards 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark moment in celebrating the artists who continue to elevate African music on the global stage.
Burna Boy, the African Giant, has also secured six prestigious nominations, including Album of the Year, Best Live Performance, Best Collaboration, Best Male Artist, Song of the Year, and Best Global African Artist.
Basically, his genre-defying sound, powerful lyrics, and stellar performances have cemented his status as one of the greatest African artists of his generation.
Meanwhile, Ayra Starr, the Afropop sensation, has made a remarkable impact with five nominations, including Best Female Artist, Best Global African Artist, Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone), Best Live Performance, and Best Music Video. Her wins showcase her versatility, artistry, and ability to captivate audiences around the world.
Also, other notable nominees include Asake, Diamond Platnumz, Stonebwoy, and Tems, who are all vying for top honors in various categories. The Trace Awards 2025 will also feature a special category for Best Collaboration, with standout tracks like Tshwala Bam (Remix) and Benin Boys competing for the top spot.
Additionally, voting for the Trace Awards 2025 is now open, with fans worldwide invited to participate by casting their votes on the official website. However, winners will be determined by a combination of fan votes and expert jury decisions.
Lastly, the Trace Awards 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of African music, with the continent’s biggest stars gathering to honor outstanding achievements and contributions to the industry.
Here are the nominees and categories for the 2025 Trace Awards:
Here are the nominees and categories for the 2025 Trace Awards:
Song of the Year
- Asake & Travis Scott – Active
- Burna Boy – Higher
- Diamond Platnumz – Komasawa
- Rema & Shallipopi – Benin Boys
- Tamsir x Team Paiya – Coup du Marteau
- Tems – Love Me Jeje
- Titom & Yuppe – Tshwala Bam
- Tyler ICU – Mnike
- Tyla – Jump
Best Female Act
- Ayra Starr
- Chelsea Dinorath
- Josey
- Makhadzi
- Tems
- Tyla
- Yemi Alade
Best Collaboration
- Titom & Yuppe & Burna Boy – Tshwala Bam (Remix)
- Neyna & MC Acondize – Nu Ka Sta Para
- Kocee ft. Patoranking – Credit Alert
- Asake & Wizkid – MMS
- Rema & Shallipopi – Benin Boys
- Odumodublvck & Black Sherif – Woto Woto Seasoning
- Tamsir & Team Paiya – Coup du Marteau
Album of the Year
- Amaarae – Fountain Baby
- Asake – Lungu Boy
- Burna Boy – I Told Them
- Josey – Vibration Universelle
- King Promise – True To Self
- Rema – HEIS
- Stonebwoy – 5th Dimension
- Toofan – Stamina
Best Male Act
- Asake
- Diamond Platnumz
- Stonebwoy
Best Global African Artist
- Rema
- Burna Boy
- Ayra Starr
Best Music Video
- Rema – DND
- Ayra Starr – Commas
Best Live Performance
- Ayra Starr – 21: THE WORLD TOUR
Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone)
Source: Notjustok.com