Rema, Ayra Starr, Mercy Chinwo, others win big at Trace Awards 2025

Rema wins big at Trace Awards 2025

Nigerian artists made a remarkable impact at the 2025 Trace Awards, securing multiple prestigious accolades. 

The event was held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Mora Resort in Zanzibar, Tanzania, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Trace TV.

Rema stood out by clinching two major awards: Album of the Year for Heis and Best Male Artist.

Gospel sensation Mercy Chinwo was honored as Best Gospel Artist, while Ayra Starr received the Best Female Artist award. 

In addition to these individual achievements, Nigerian artists collectively secured a total of six awards at the ceremony, underscoring the country's significant influence in the African music scene.

The 2025 Trace Awards highlighted the diverse musical talents across the continent, with other notable winners including South African duo Titom & Yuppe, who won Song of the Year for "Tshwala Bam," and artists like Josey, Makhadzi, Bien, Kenny Haiti, and Chelsea Dinorath, who were recognized in categories such as Best Francophone Artist, Best Dancer, Best East African Artist, Best Caribbean Artist, and Best Lusophone African Artist, respectively.

Check out the Full List of Trace Awards' winners below:

Song of the Year

• Titom & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (South Africa)
• Tyla – ‘Jump’ (South Africa)
• Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
• Tamsir x Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
• Asake & Travis Scott – ‘Active’ (Nigeria)
• Tems – ‘Love Me Jeje’ (Nigeria)
• Burna Boy – ‘Higher’ (Nigeria)
• Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)
• Diamond Platnumz – ‘Komasawa’ (Tanzania)

Album of the Year

• Rema – Heis (Nigeria)
• Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)
• Asake – Lungu Boy (Nigeria)
• Josey – Vibration Universelle (Ivory Coast)
• Amaarae – Fountain Baby (Ghana)
• King Promise – True To Self (Ghana)
• Stonebwoy – 5th Dimension (Ghana)
• Toofan – Stamina (Togo)

Best Collaboration

• Tamsir & Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
• Titom & Yuppe & Burna Boy – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (Remix) (South Africa/Nigeria)
• Neyna & MC Acondize – ‘Nu Ka Sta Para’ (Cape Verde)
• Kocee ft. Patoranking – ‘Credit Alert’ (Cameroon/Nigeria)
• Asake & Wizkid – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)
• Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)
• Odumodublvck & Black Sherif – ‘Woto Woto Seasoning’ (Ghana)

Best Music Video

• Meji Alabi – Rema ‘DND’ (Nigeria)
• TG Omori – Kizz Daniel & Davido ‘Twe Twe’ (Nigeria)
• Director Folex – Zuchu feat Innoss’ B ‘Nani’ (Remix) (Tanzania/DRC)
• Nabil Elderkin – Tyla ‘Jump’ (South Africa)
• Kmane – Ayra Starr ‘Commas’ (Nigeria)
• Seoute Emmanuel – Toofan ‘C Pas Normal’ (Togo)
• Ach’B – Innoss’ B ‘Sete’ (DRC)
• Edgar Esteves – Asake & Wizkid ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)

Best Dancer

• Makhadzi (South Africa)
• Ikorodu Boys (Nigeria)
• Dancegod Lloyd (Ghana)
• Incredible Zigi (Ghana)
• Kamo Mphela (South Africa)
• Telminho (Angola)
• Ordinateur (Ivory Coast)
• Issac Kalonji (Democratic Republic of Congo)

Best DJ

• DJ Moh Green – ‘Kelele’ (Algeria)
• Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
• Uncle Waffles – ‘Wadibusa’ (South Africa)
• DJ Tunez – ‘Apala Disco Remix’ (Nigeria)
• DJ Nelasta – ‘Eros’ (Angola)
• DJ Spinall ft. Tyla & Omah Lay – ‘One Call’ (Nigeria)
• DJ Neptune ft. Qing Madi – ‘Honest’ (Nigeria)
• DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
• Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

Best Hip Hop Artist (sponsored by Hot 97)

• Didi B (Ivory Coast)
• Nasty C (South Africa)
• Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
• Suspect 95 (Ivory Coast)
• Sarkodie (Ghana)
• Young Lunya (Tanzania)
• Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)

Pan-African Awards

Best Global African Artist

• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Tyla (South Africa)
• Tyler ICU (South Africa)
• Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Burna Boy (Nigeria)
• Asake (Nigeria/USA)
• Rema (Nigeria)
• Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

Best Male Artist

• Rema (Nigeria)
• Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
• Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Asake (Nigeria)
• Burna Boy (Nigeria)
• Wizkid (Nigeria)
• Stonebwoy (Ghana)

Best Female Artist

• Tyla (South Africa)
• Makhadzi (South Africa)
• Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
• Josey (Ivory Coast)
• Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
• Tems (Nigeria)
• Yemi Alade (Nigeria)

Best Live Performance

• Fally Ipupa (DRC)
• Ayra Starr – 21: The World Tour (Nigeria)
• Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)
• Tyla (South Africa)
• Yemi Alade – African Rebel Tour (Nigeria)
• Didi B – Mojo Trone Tour (Ivory Coast)
• Diamond Platnumz – Wasafi Festival (Tanzania)

Best Producer

• P.Priime – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)
• Kelvin Momo – ‘Sewe’ (South Africa)
• DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
• Tam Sir – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
• Sarz – ‘Happiness’ (Nigeria)
• Jae 5 – ‘Perfect Combi’ (Ghana)
• KDDO – ‘For Certain’ (Party Next Door) (Nigeria)
• London – ‘Ozeba’ (Nigeria)
• Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

Best Gospel Artist

• Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
• Spirit of Praise 10 (South Africa)
• KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)
• Ada Ehi (Nigeria)
• Bella Kombo (Tanzania)
• Israël Mbonyi (Rwanda)

REGIONAL AWARDS

Best Artist Eastern Africa

• Bien (Kenya)
• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
• Harmonize (Tanzania)
• Rophnan (Ethiopia)
• Marioo (Tanzania)
• Zuchu (Tanzania)
• Nandy (Tanzania)

Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone)

• Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
• Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
• Adekunle Gold (Nigeria)
• Tems (Nigeria)
• Chike (Nigeria)
• Simi (Nigeria)
• KiDi (Ghana)

Best Artist (Southern Africa)

• Tyler ICU (South Africa)
• Titom & Yuppe (South Africa)
• De Mthuda (South Africa)
• Inkabi Zezwe (South Africa)
• Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
• Tyla (South Africa)
• Uncle Waffles (South Africa)

Best Artist Francophone Africa

• Josey (Ivory Coast)
• Didi B (Ivory Coast)
• Tidiane Mario (Congo)
• Gaz Mawete (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Wally B. Seck (Senegal)
• PhillBill (Cameroon)

Best Artist (Lusophone Africa)

• Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
• Calema (São Tomé and Príncipe)
• Landrick (Angola)
• Twenty Fingers (Mozambique)
• Mr. Bow (Mozambique)
• Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)

Best Artist (Tanzania)

• Nandy (Tanzania)
• Mbosso (Zanzibar)
• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Zuchu (Zanzibar)
• Marioo (Tanzania)
• Alikiba (Tanzania)
• Jux (Tanzania)
• Harmonize (Tanzania)

International and Diaspora Awards

Best Artist (Europe)

• Joe Dwet File (France/Haiti)
• Central Cee (United Kingdom)
• Kalash (France/Martinique)
• Darkoo (United Kingdom)
• Jungeli (France)
• Franglish (France)
• Aya Nakamura (France/Mali)

Best Artist (Brazil)

• Duquesa (Brazil)
• Racionais MC’s (Brazil)
• MC IG (Brazil)
• Péricles (Brazil)
• Tasha & Tracie (Brazil)
• Ludmilla (Brazil)

Best Artist (Caribbean)

• Lea Churro (Reunion Island) 
• Venssy (French Guiana)
• Mathieu White (Guadeloupe)
• Meryl (Martinique)
• Nesly (French Guiana)
• Shenseea (Jamaica)
• Kenny Haiti (Haiti)

Best Artist (Indian Ocean)

• Barth (Reunion)
• Goulam (Comoros)
• PLL (Reunion)
• Kalipsxau (Reunion)
• Léa Churros (Reunion)
• Jamily Jeanne (Mauritius)

Lifetime Achievement Award

• D’Banj

How Nigerian DJs and Artists are unlocking more gigs and opportunities

Here’s how Epoh Music is making DJ booking easier than ever

The Nigerian music industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with Afrobeats dominating global charts and local artists gaining international recognition. However, despite this success, one major challenge remains—accessibility. Many talented DJs and artists struggle to secure bookings, promote their music, and connect with event organizers. This is where Epoh Music steps in, providing a game-changing platform designed to bridge these gaps and empower industry professionals.

The Need for a Centralized Music Hub

For years, Nigerian musicians and DJs have relied on fragmented systems—word-of-mouth referrals, social media shoutouts, and inconsistent booking processes. These traditional methods often exclude emerging talents who lack the right connections. Epoh Music changes the narrative by offering a structured, digital solution where artists and DJs can showcase their skills, get booked seamlessly, and manage their careers professionally.

Empowering DJs: More Than Just a Booking Platform
DJs play a crucial role in shaping the sound of Nigeria’s nightlife and entertainment scene. Epoh Music ensures that DJs, from up-and-coming turntablists to seasoned professionals, get the visibility they deserve. By registering on the platform, DJs gain access to a wider audience, increasing their chances of securing gigs at clubs, concerts, private events, and festivals.

Beyond bookings, Epoh Music offers tools for DJs to promote their brand, share mixes, and build relationships with music lovers and event planners. In an industry where recognition is key, this exposure can significantly elevate a DJ’s career.

Artists and Event Organizers: A Win-Win Partnership
While DJs benefit from increased visibility, artists and event organizers also gain from Epoh Music’s innovative platform. Artists can connect with DJs who will amplify their music at events, while organizers can easily discover and book top-tier DJs suited to their event’s vibe. This creates a symbiotic relationship that enhances the overall quality of live music experiences in Nigeria.

Pushing the Culture Forward
As Afrobeats continues to shape global music, platforms like Epoh Music (epoh.ng) ensure that local industry players are not left behind. By creating an inclusive space where talent meets opportunity, Epoh Music is revolutionizing how Nigerian music professionals navigate their careers.

The future of Nigerian music is digital, and Epoh Music is at the forefront of this transformation. Whether you’re a DJ looking for your next big break, an artist seeking greater exposure, or an event organizer in need of top-tier talent, Epoh Music is your go-to platform.

Final Thoughts
As the industry shifts towards more digital solutions, embracing platforms like Epoh Music (epoh.ng) isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. The time for innovation is now, and Epoh Music is leading the charge in redefining how Nigerian music professionals connect, grow, and thrive.

Ayra Starr and Darkoo secure big wins at MOBO Awards 2025

Ayra Starr and Darkoo makes history at 2025 MOBO Awards

 

Nigeria was well represented at the 2025 MOBO Awards on Tuesday night, as Ayra Starr and Darkoo secured major wins.

The 27th edition of the prestigious awards took place at Utilita Arena in Newcastle, UK, on February 18, hosted by Eddie Kadi and Indiyah Polack.

Darkoo, the Nigerian-British star, won Best Female Act, marking her first-ever MOBO Award. She also took home Song of the Year for Favourite Girl featuring Dess Dior.

“I just want to say thank you to God. Big up my mum, my dad, for loving me, for accepting me. Big up my team, thank you for believing in me. Thank you to my fans, thank you so much," she said in her acceptance speech.

Meanwhile, Ayra Starr made history as the first woman in 16 years to win Best African Music Act. She didn’t stop there—she also claimed the award for Best International Act.

See the full list of winners from the 2025 MOBO Awards below:

Best male act

• Bashy
• Winner: Central Cee
  
• D-Block Europe
• Ghetts
• Nemzzz
• Sampha

Best female act

• Cleo Sol
• Winner: Darkoo
• Jorja Smith
• Little Simz
• Nia Archives
• Raye

Album of the year

• Winner: Bashy – “Being Poor Is Expensive”
• Cleo Sol – “Gold”
• Ghetts – “On Purpose, With Purpose”
• Jorja Smith – “Falling Or Flying”
• Sampha – “Lahai”
• Skrapz – “Reflection”

Song of the year

• Central Cee Feat. Lil Baby – “Band4band”
• Chase & Status, Stormzy – “Backbone”
• WINNER: Darkoo Feat. Dess Dior – “Favourite Girl”
• Jordan Adetunji – “Kehlani”
• Leostaytrill – “Pink Lemonade”
• Odeal – “Soh-soh”

Best newcomer

• Chy Cartier
• Elmiene
• Fimiguerrero
• Flowerovlove
• Jordan Adetunji
• Len
• Leostaytrill
• Myles Smith
• Winner: Odeal
• Pozer

Video of the year

• Meekz – “Mini Me’s” (Directed By Kc Locke)
• Winner: Mnelia – “My Man” (Directed By Femi Bello)
• Raye – “Genesis” (Directed By Otis Dominique & Raye)
• Sampha – “Only” (Directed By Dexter Navy)
• Skepta – “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” (Directed By Steveo)
• Unknown T Feat. Loyle Carner – “Hocus Pocus” (Directed By Felix Brady)

Best R&B/soul act

• Cleo Sol
• Elmiene
• Flo
• Jaz Karis
• Jorja Smith
• Nippa
• Winner: Odeal
• Sasha Keable
• Shae Universe
• Sinead Harnett

Best alternative music act

• Winner: ALT BLK ERA
• Bob Vylan
• Hak Baker
• Kid Bookie
• Native James
• Spider

Best grime act

• Chip
• D Double E
• Duppy
• Kruz Leone
• Manga Saint Hilare
• Winner: Scorcher

Best hip hop act

• Winner: Bashy
• Cristale
• Headie One
• Nines
• Potter Payper
• Skrapz

Best drill act

• 163Margs
• Central Cee
• Headie One
• Kairo Keyz
• K-trap
• Winner: Pozer

Best international act

• Asake
• Winner: Ayra Starr
  
• Beyoncé
• GloRilla
• Kendrick Lamar
• Latto
• Megan Thee Stallion
• Nicki Minaj
• Tems
• Tyla

Best performance in a TV show/film

• Angela Wynter As Yolande Trueman In “Eastenders”
• Caroline Chikezie As Noma In “Power Book II: Ghost”
• Diane Parish As Denise Fox In “Eastenders”
• Dionne Brown As Queenie In “Queenie”
• Ghetts As Krazy In “Supacell”
• Winner: Jacob Anderson As Louis In “Interview With The Vampire”
• Jasmine Jobson As Jaq In “Top Boy”
• Josh Tedeku As Tazer In “Supacell”
• Kingsley Ben-adir As Bob Marley In “Bob Marley: One Love”
• Tosin Cole As Michael In “Supacell”
  

Best media personality

• Winner: 90’s Baby Show
• AJ Odudu
• Chuckie Online
• Craig Mitch
• Henrie Kwushue
• Madame Joyce
• Micah Richards
• Specs Gonzalez
• The Receipts Podcast
• Zeze Millz

Best African music act

• Asake
• Winner: Ayra Starr 
• Bnxn & Ruger
• King Promise
• Odumodublvck
• Rema
• Shallipopi
• Tems
• Tyla
• Uncle Waffles

Best Caribbean music act

• Popcaan
• Winner: Shenseea
• Skillibeng
• Spice
• Valiant
• Yg Marley

Best jazz act

• Amy Gadiaga
• Blue Lab Beats
• Ego Ella May
• Winner: Ezra Collective
• Kokoroko
• Yussef Dayes

Best electronic/Dance act

• Eliza Rose
• Nia Archives
• Pinkpantheress
• Salute
• Shygirl
• Winner: Tsha

Best producer

• Ceebeaats
• Inflo
• Winner: Juls
• M1onthebeat
• P2j
• Sammy Soso

Best gospel act

• Winner: Annatoria
• Imrhan
• Limoblaze
• Reblah
• Still Shadey
• Volney Morgan & New Ye

Ayra Starr faces backlash for dancing to Naira Marley's new song

Ayra Starr dragged for vibing to Naira Marley's song

Ayra Starr has landed in hot water after sharing a video of herself dancing and singing along to Naira Marley’s latest track on TikTok. 

The clip quickly sparked controversy, with fans divided over her decision to publicly support the artist.

Naira Marley has been at the center of ongoing speculation regarding his alleged connection to the death of singer Mohbad. 

While investigations have remained inconclusive, many fans believe associating with him is disrespectful to Mohbad’s legacy. 

Ayra Starr’s post which she has now deleted ignited outrage, with some calling for a boycott. 

“Her decision to promote Naira Marley’s song is not only tone-deaf but also insensitive to the family and fans of Mohbad,” one fan tweeted.

However, others defended her, arguing she should not be held responsible for Marley’s past controversies.

“Ayra Starr is an artist, not a moral compass. She should be free to enjoy whatever music she likes,” another fan countered.

Aside from taking down the video which has gone viral, Ayra is yet to address the public over the saga.

Tems wins her second Grammy for Best African Music Performance

Tems wins big at the 67th Grammys

Nigerian singer Tems has secured her second Grammy Award, taking home the Best African Music Performance trophy for her hit single Love Me Jeje.

Released on April 26, 2024, Love Me Jeje is a modern rework of Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 classic, seamlessly blending contemporary Afrobeats with nostalgic elements.

During her Grammy acceptance speech, Tems expressed deep gratitude, saying:

"Dear God, thank you so much for putting me on this stage."

She also extended appreciation to her managers and team, while sharing a touching moment on stage with her mother, whom she warmly acknowledged.

This victory further cements Tems’ influence on the global stage and highlights the growing dominance of Nigerian artists in the international music industry.