The 2025 Trace Awards brought the best of African and global music to the forefront, with Nigerian artists taking center stage. Held on February 26, 2025, at Mora Resort, Zanzibar, Tanzania, the prestigious event celebrated outstanding musical achievements, with Rema, Ayra Starr, and Mercy Chinwo securing top honors.
Nigeria Dominates the 2025 Trace Awards
Nigeria's Afrobeats wave continues to make global waves, and this year's Trace Awards proved it yet again. The night was packed with thrilling performances and well-deserved victories, highlighting the country’s deep influence on the international music scene.
Biggest Winners of the Night
- Rema stole the spotlight, winning Album of the Year for Heis and clinching Best Male Artist.
- Ayra Starr was recognized as the Best West African Artist, cementing her place as one of the region’s biggest stars.
- Mercy Chinwo, known for her soul-stirring gospel music, took home the Best Gospel Artist award.
- Afrobeats icon D’banj received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his immense contribution to African music over the years.
Other Notable Nigerian Winners
- P. Priime bagged Best Producer for his work on MMS.
- Meji Alabi won Best Music Video for directing Rema’s DND.
The event was a testament to the ever-growing impact of Afrobeats and Nigerian music on a global scale. From lyrical storytelling to electrifying beats, these artists continue to push boundaries and set new records.
Complete List of Winners at the 2025 Trace Awards
Global Awards
🏆 Song of the Year
- Winner: Tshwala Bam – Titom & Yuppe (South Africa)
- Nominees: Tyla – Jump, Tyler ICU – Mnike, Asake & Travis Scott – Active, Tems – Love Me Jeje, Burna Boy – Higher, Rema & Shallipopi – Benin Boys, Diamond Platnumz – Komasawa.
🏆 Album of the Year
- Winner: Heis – Rema (Nigeria)
- Nominees: Burna Boy – I Told Them, Asake – Lungu Boy, Josey – Vibration Universelle, Amaarae – Fountain Baby, King Promise – True To Self.
🏆 Best Collaboration
- Winner: Coup du Marteau – Tamsir & Team Paiya (Ivory Coast)
- Nominees: Titom & Yuppe ft. Burna Boy – Tshwala Bam (Remix), Asake & Wizkid – MMS, Rema & Shallipopi – Benin Boys.
🏆 Best Music Video
- Winner: DND – Meji Alabi (Rema) (Nigeria)
- Nominees: TG Omori – Twe Twe (Kizz Daniel & Davido), Director Folex – Nani (Zuchu feat. Innoss’ B), Nabil Elderkin – Jump (Tyla).
🏆 Best Male Artist
- Winner: Rema (Nigeria)
- Nominees: Burna Boy, Asake, Diamond Platnumz, Fally Ipupa, Wizkid.
🏆 Best Female Artist
- Winner: Tyla (South Africa)
- Nominees: Ayra Starr, Tems, Yemi Alade, Makhadzi, Chelsea Dinorath.
🏆 Best Gospel Artist
- Winner: Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
- Nominees: Ada Ehi, Bella Kombo, Israel Mbonyi, KS Bloom, Spirit of Praise 10.
🏆 Best Producer
- Winner: P. Priime (Nigeria)
- Nominees: DJ Maphorisa, Kelvin Momo, Tam Sir, Sarz, Jae5.
Why This Year’s Trace Awards Were a Game-Changer
The 2025 Trace Awards were more than just a celebration—they were a statement. Nigerian music continues to dominate not just Africa but the world, and with artists like Rema, Ayra Starr, and Burna Boy, the momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
With Afrobeats breaking barriers and Nigerian talent shining globally, the future of African music looks brighter than ever!
💬 What are your thoughts on the winners? Which artist do you think deserved an award? Drop a comment below!