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Tag: Burna Boy

  • Grammys: Afrobeats defeat triggers fans’ anger

    Grammys: Afrobeats defeat triggers fans’ anger

    As the dust settles on the 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, many Nigerian music enthusiasts are still expressing disappointment after Afrobeats superstars including Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid and Ayra Starr, failed to win the gramophone at music’s biggest night. OLAITAN GANIU writes.

    It was South African popstar, Laura ‘Tyla’ Seethal, who took the shine, taking home the Best African Music Performance award for her hit single titled, ‘Push 2 Start’.

    The 24-year-old’s victory marks her second consecutive win in the category since it was introduced in 2024. Tyla is the first artiste in Africa to achieve this distinction.

    “First of all, shout-out to young African creative out there. I’m so excited to see more of us over here,” Tyla said at the backstage after accepting the award.

    She added, “I want to thank God. I want to thank my management team, family and fans. I’m so bless! Winning the Grammys, two out of two.”

    Tyla’s song, which blended amapiano and pop influences, outperformed nominations from some of Afrobeats’ biggest exports in the Academy’s voting.

    “From the movement we recorded ‘Push 2 Start’, we knew it going to be magical. It’s such a special song,” she enthused.

    The win has reignited debate across the street of Nigeria, industry observers and fans expressing a mix of frustration.

    Some claimed the outcome was unfair given Afrobeats’ global reach, shows and streaming dominance. While others call for systemic change in how African music is positioned at global awards.

    Read Also: Why I was banned alongside co-actors in 2005 – Actress Omotola

    A music lover, Adediwura James, said “Grammy has dimmed Afrobeats stars again. That award show has officially lost its credibility in front of Nigerians.”

    “Nigerians were hyped, praying for that historic sweep or at least one trophy for the big three. Instead, it’s another year of ‘close but no cigar’. Afrobeats is still global, but the Grammy gods said ‘not today’. How are you feeling about it? Disappointed? ” another fan, Precious Eze expressed.

    For Victor Oyi, it time to embrace and support our local awards. “They threw Afrobeats in the mud,” he said,

    “This Tyla song is not worth a Headies, not to talk of a Grammy Award. 

    Some reactions were more daring, with fans suggesting the need for African centred award platforms.

    “Let’s start African Grammys abeg,” upcoming singer, Banjo Adedayo expressed.

    However, not all voices framed the result negatively. Several commentators acknowledged that being nominated alongside global stars is a win.

    Industry experts call for strategic engagement

    Veteran Disc Jockey, DJ Big N urged the Nigerians to channel their anger into action.

    He encouraged them to join the Recording Academy as voting members, arguing that deeper involvement could influence outcomes from within.

    “Yes, Nigerians are disappointed about the Grammy outcome, and I feel that too,” he began.

    “But let’s turn that energy into action. Let’s get involved and make our votes count! Better luck next year.”

    He cited examples of global icons who have used their positions to extend influence beyond the awards nights.

    He added that. “It stings deeply that so many talented Nigerians were nominated but didn’t bring the Grammy home this time. But here’s the truth: legends like Angelique Kidjo and Youssou N’Dour, have shown us the power of being involved beyond just the award night. She’s at those seminars, those events, making her presence felt.”

    Controversial artiste, Speed Darlington mocked perceived politics in award outcomes.

    “No Diddy, No Grammy,” he remarks, alluding to the idea that musical authority could be influenced by entrenched industry networks.

    Also weighed in is socialite, Cubana Chief Priest, as he took to his Instagram page to post a picture of himself with Afrobeats artiste, Davido.

    In his comment, he encouraged the OBO singer to move on and create focus on his craft despite the loss.

    “Oyibo dey do everything possible to break a strong man so he can do their demonic shit with them, but he will never do it. Heads up, brother, open the bag and drop another hot one for us. E no dey finish, Gbedu na water.”

    Way forward

    Beyond the backlash, some music practitioners are reframing how success is defined for Afrobeats globally.

    Music journalist and podcaster, Joey Akan advised Afrobeats’ artistes to be more original and shun foreign approval.

    “Foreigners saw you making music for your home, fell in love with your novel authenticity, essence, and how it moved your people,” Akan said.

    “Once they started giving you money, you decided to ruin your working formula, deny and disparage your people, and cater exclusively to foreigners. They in turn routinely rejected this new and unfamiliar thing you’ve created for them.

    “They’ve stopped giving you money, and now you’re all back to square one, making music for Nigerians, exactly what you were supposed to do.

    According to him, the story of ‘Afrobeats to the world’ is one of self-denial, creative misdirection and a lack of cultural commitment to ourselves.”

    Veteran Music producer and singer, Cobhams Asuquo suggested that while Grammy recognition is desirable, it should not be the sole measure of achievement.

    “I think Grammy is using Nigerians to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. It’s like a carrot dangling in front of us, and it goes away. I think we need to build something that is ours.

    “Let’s grow something that can make other people converge in our space,” he said.

    Similarly, DJ Big N echoed a broader perspective, emphasising that even without a Nigerian win for Best Afrobeat Song of the Year, the impact of Afrobeat on the world map lives on.

  • Burna Boy loses Best Global Music Album at 2026 Grammys

    Burna Boy loses Best Global Music Album at 2026 Grammys

    Award-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy was edged out of the Best Global Music Album category at the 2026 Grammy Awards.

    His project, No Sign of Weakness, lost to Brazilian music legends Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia, whose live album, Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo, clinched the award.

    READ ALSO: The men who ruined a republic

    Burna Boy faced strong competition in the category, which also featured Siddhant Bhatia’s Sounds of Kumbha, Youssou N’Dour’s Éclairer le monde (Light the World), and Anoushka Shankar’s Chapter III: We Return to Light.

    The loss capped a difficult night for the Nigerian star, who had earlier missed out on the Best African Music Performance award. That category was won by South African singer Tyla, whose track Push 2 Start triumphed over entries from Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr.

  • Burna Boy my top collaboration choice – Ayra Starr

    Burna Boy my top collaboration choice – Ayra Starr

    Award-winning singer Ayra Starr has expressed desire to collaborate with Afrobeats star Burna Boy, naming him as her top choice.

    In a recent interview with Billboard, Starr revealed that she is eager to work with Burna Boy, saying, “Everybody knows Burna Boy is like my number one person I want to collaborate with.

    “I’ve collaborated with a lot of people, and I still want to collaborate with many more people,” Ayra Starr said.

    Ayra’s comments come after her two Grammy nominations, including Best African Music Performance for her collaboration with Wizkid on “Gimme Dat.”

    The nominations were announced in November 2025 ahead of the Grammy Awards ceremony scheduled for February 1, 2026.

    Reacting to the recognition, the singer described the nomination as a moment of reassurance in her career.

    “I remember I was so excited. I was like, ‘Oh my God. Oh my God. I knew it. I knew it.

    “Every day I feel happy. I’m very grateful. Every day it’s like a new feeling — ‘Oh, I’m actually a two-time Grammy nominee,” she said.

    Comparing her first and second nominations, Ayra said, “The first time I got nominated, it was like, ‘Oh my God, I got nominated. This is crazy.’ But the second time felt like reassurance and just like, ‘Oh, I’m good at this. I know what I’m doing.’”

    She added, “Maybe I need to trust God and myself a bit more.”

    The song, which samples 911 by Wyclef Jean and Mary J. Blige, has been a major factor in her growing global recognition.

    Read Also: Burna Boy reveals posthumous reconciliation with AKA

    Speaking on the inspiration behind “Gimme Dat,” Starr revealed that she was unaware of the song’s origins until the recording process.

    She said, “To be honest, I was born in 2002, so I didn’t really know exactly. I didn’t really know until I was recording the song and Don Jazzy was like, ‘Okay, this is a 911 sample.’ Then I went and did my research, and I was like, Wow.”

    She added that the experience felt symbolic.

    “The crazy thing was that the studio I was recording in was also Wyclef’s studio, and I did not know that at the time. So it felt like everything was just meant to be,” she said.

    Starr also opened up about struggling with her voice while recording the track, saying, “First of all, I sounded horrible… The engineer knew I sounded horrible. I sounded bad the first day.”

    The Mavin signee explained that she returned to the studio the day after despite still battling vocal issues.

    “My voice was still all over the place, but I was very, very determined. I wanted to sound great. I gave my all, and we thank God for technology. It came out beautiful.”

    She added that ‘Gimme Dat’ was initially intended to be her solo single before Wizkid joined the project.

    “I recorded this song maybe six or eight months before it actually came out. This was before Wizkid even jumped on it. It was supposed to be just my single.”

    She added, “When we got Wizkid on the track, I was like, ‘You know what? It’s time.’ It came together perfectly at the right time.”

    On the growing global recognition of African music, Ayra Starr said the moment reflects a broader shift.

    “I feel like it’s Africa’s time music-wise,” she said. “We’ve always made amazing music, and the world is just catching up.”

    Looking ahead, Starr said she is focused on creating new music and exploring other creative ventures. “One thing I’m doing this year is creating whatever I want to exist,” she said. “I’m working on an album. I’m not done. By God’s grace — a book.”

  • Burna Boy reveals posthumous reconciliation with AKA

    Burna Boy reveals posthumous reconciliation with AKA

    Grammy-winning singer Burna Boy has claimed he resolved a feud with South African rapper AKA before his tragic death.

    In a posthumous birthday message on Instagram, Burna Boy expressed regret that the duo never got to collaborate or execute their plans.

    The feud between Burna Boy and AKA began in 2019 after AKA reportedly encouraged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, prompting Burna Boy to threaten to deal with him if they ever met.

    Read Also: Why Davido can win governorship election over Burna Boy – Seyi Sodimu

    Burna Boy wrote, “Happy birthday Supa Mega. We fell out over bullsh*t even though we squashed it over Twitter DMs nobody knew about, we never got the chance to really link up and do what we were supposed to do. I will regret that until I see you again. Until then, R.I.P Mega.”

    AKA was shot dead outside a restaurant in Durban on February 10, 2023 with trial into his murder ongoing.

  • Burna Boy and Sporty Group Unveil New Single “For Everybody” and Visual Tribute Celebrating Africa’s Vibrant Sports Heritage and Cultural Excellence

    Burna Boy and Sporty Group Unveil New Single “For Everybody” and Visual Tribute Celebrating Africa’s Vibrant Sports Heritage and Cultural Excellence

    …Dave Meyers-directed music video showcases top African athletes, fashion, and choreography in a poignant tribute to the continent.

    Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy has released his brand-new single, “For Everybody,” and accompanying music film, unveiling the full creative work first teased in partnership with Sporty Group. The all-encompassing project brings together some of Africa’s most dynamic athletes – including Camavinga, Nico and Iñaki Williams, Ighalo, Makelele, Karembeu, Alex Song, Militão, Asisat Oshoala, Cheslin Kolbe, and more – in a defining cultural moment that merges music, movement and identity ahead of a monumental year for African sport.

    Designed as part of a cultural offering, the song, available on Burna Boy’s and SportyTV’s YouTube channels, reflects Burna Boy’s ongoing mission to champion African pride, unity, and influence. “For Everybody” arrived just before the pinnacle of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026 Final between Morocco and Senegal, with fans who had the unique pleasure of seeing Burna Boy perform at The AFCON Last Dance, live from the Olm Souissi Fan Zone in Rabat, yesterday, Friday, January 17 at 20:00 local time. During the event, Burna Boy delivered the first live performance of “For Everybody,” marking its debut on the AFCON stage.

    Directed by award-winning American music video director Dave Meyers, in collaboration with renowned choreographer Shay Latukolan and Sporty Studios, the film showcases the emotional and physical energy at the heart of African sport: ambition, rhythm, and global impact. Burna Boy and the athletes deliver powerful performances blending cinematic visuals, athletic choreography, fashion and symbolic storytelling inspired by football, culture and community. With lyrical themes grounded in resilience, legacy, and the power of collective momentum, the track pays tribute to a new generation of African icons shaping the world on and off the pitch.

    “This one is for the culture — for everyone carrying our sound, our spirit and our story around the world,” Burna Boy said.

    “Africa is a continent of extraordinary cultural richness—defined by beauty, grace, and boundless diversity,” says director Dave Meyers. “Being welcomed into that space to celebrate its fashion and movement, set to the anthemic pulse of Burna Boy, was an invitation I felt truly honoured to receive.”

    The featured players represent the continent’s strength and diversity, connecting the song’s release, their involvement as athletes, and the shared identity between music and sport, and the pride felt by fans worldwide.

    The release marks the first full expression of the creative universe Burna Boy and Sporty Group have been building, following teasers that generated global anticipation.

    The music video is now available to view on Sporty Group’s YouTube channel HERE –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUkcAa_IBU0.

    About Sporty Group

    Sporty Group is a global consumer internet and media company with unparalleled digital platforms serving millions of daily active users via technology and operations hubs across four continents. The company delivers premium, live, and engaging content to sports fans around the world through its network of complementary brands spanning digital and linear broadcasting, gaming, and entertainment. For more information, please visit www.SportyGroup.com 

    Media Contacts CommuniquéAdvisory on behalf of Sporty Group: advisory@communiquehq.com

  • Tinubu salutes Rema, Burna Boy, others as Nigeria shines at 9th AFRIMA

    Tinubu salutes Rema, Burna Boy, others as Nigeria shines at 9th AFRIMA

    …hails artistes’ wins as proof of creative strength

    …commends Lagos for world-class hosting

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who emerged winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their triumphs as fresh evidence of the growing strength and global relevance of Nigeria’s music and creative ecosystem.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday, the President praised the artistes for projecting Nigeria positively on a continental stage, saying their success underscored the creativity, resilience, and global appeal of Nigerian youths and the country’s expanding influence in African and world music.

    Nigeria recorded a strong showing at the 9th AFRIMA, held in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026.

    Lagos was designated the official host city by the African Union Commission in April 2025.

    At the awards ceremony, Rema clinched Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African R&B and Soul, while Burna Boy won Album of the Year.

    Shallipopi emerged winner of Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.

    Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi won Most Promising Artiste, while Yemi Alade took the Best Soundtrack award.

    Chella won African Fans’ Favourite, while industry veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye received the AFRIMA Legendary Award.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s opponents ‘confused’ ahead of 2027 elections, says APC chieftain

    According to President Tinubu, the achievements reflected years of hard work, consistency, and talent, noting that Nigerian music had become a powerful voice for the country across Africa and beyond.

    “I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards. Your success on this great continental stage is a proud moment for our nation and a strong reflection of the depth of talent, creativity, and hard work that define Nigeria’s music industry.

    “You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity across the continent and beyond,” the President said.

    The President also congratulated Lagos State as the official host city of the event, commending the state government for delivering a successful and world-class ceremony.

    “I commend Lagos State for once again proving its capacity as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the excellent hosting of Africa’s global music awards,” he said.

    President Tinubu, who was honoured in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and AFRIMA’s international committee, assured that his administration would continue to prioritise youth empowerment and the development of the creative economy.

    Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of All Africa Music Awards in partnership with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA is regarded as Africa’s biggest music awards platform.

    The 9th edition featured over 1,216 artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries.

    The Lagos celebration opened with a welcome soiree on January 7, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit and the AFRIMA Music Village, before culminating in a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where winners received the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.

  • FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Rema, others emerge winners at AFRIMA 2026

    FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Rema, others emerge winners at AFRIMA 2026

    The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2026 witnessed a stellar performance by music sensation Rema, who walked away with three prestigious awards.

    The 24-year-old artiste won Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, Artiste of the Year and Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African RnB/Soul for “Calm Down”.

    Burna Boy, one of Nigeria’s most prominent music stars, took home the Album of the Year award for “No Sign of Weakness”.

    Yemi Alade, a renowned singer, songwriter, won Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for “You Are” from “Iyanu: The Animated Series”.

    Fast-rising artiste Shallipopi made a notable impact, winning Song of the Year for “Laho” and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.

    Phyno, a prominent rapper, won Best African Artiste in African Hip-Hop.

    The awards ceremony, held at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, brought together notable African artistes, showcasing the continent’s rich musical diversity and cultural heritage.

    Other winners at the event included Tanzanian singer Jux, who won Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa, and Cindy Le Coeur of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who won Best Female Artiste in Central Africa.

    AFRIMA 2026 showcased African musical diversity and cultural heritage, with Lagos hosting the awards for the third time, following previous editions in Ghana and Senegal.

    Below is the full list of winners:

    Best Male Artist in Central Africa

    • C4 Pedro (Angola)
    • Eboloko (Gabon)
    • Gims (DRC)
    • Gerilson Insrael (Angola)
    • Kocee (Cameroon)
    • L’Oiseau Rare (Gabon)
    • Fally Ipupa (DRC)
    • Magasco (Cameroon)
    • Singuila (The Congo) – Winner
    • Werrason (DRC)

    Best Female Artiste in Central Africa
    • Anna Joyce (Angola)
    • Blanche Bailly (Cameroon)
    • Charlotte Dipanda (Cameroon)
    • Cindy Le Coeur (DRC) – Winner
    • Deborah Lukalu (DRC)
    • Emma’a (Gabon)
    • Jessy B (The Congo)
    • Krys M (Cameroon)
    • Liriany (Angola)
    • Rebo (DRC)

    Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa
    • Bien (Kenya)
    • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
    • Element Eleéh (Rwanda)
    • Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
    • Jux (Tanzania) – Winner
    • Marioo (Tanzania)
    • Mbosso (Tanzania)
    • Bruce Melodie (Rwanda)
    • Sat-B (Burundi)
    • Yared Negu (Ethiopia)

    Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa
    • Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
    • Bridget Blue (Kenya)
    • Denise (Madagascar) – winner
    • Haleluya Tekletsadik (Ethiopia)
    • Lady Jaydee (Tanzania)
    • Mahlet Wendimu (Ethiopia)
    • Salemia (Ethiopia)
    • Weeha (Ethiopia)
    • Winnie Nwagi (Uganda)
    • Zuchu (Tanzania)

    Best Male Artiste in Northern Africa
    • A.L.A. (Tunisia)
    • Adviser (Mauritania)
    • Amr Diab (Egypt)
    • Cheb Momo (Algeria)
    • El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Hamza Namira (Egypt)
    • Lbenj (Morocco)
    • Mohamed Ramadan (Egypt)
    • Stormy (Morocco)
    • Wegz (Egypt)

    Best Female Artiste in Northern Africa
    • Chirine Lajmi (Tunisia)
    • Inez (Morocco)
    • Jannat (Egypt)
    • Jaylann (Morocco)
    • Manal (Morocco)
    • Meryem Aboulouafa (Morocco)
    • Sherine (Egypt) – Winner
    • Zina Daoudia (Morocco)

    Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa
    • Anderson Mário (Mozambique)
    • Jah Prayzah (Zimbabwe)
    • Manana (Eswatini)
    • Nasty C (South Africa)
    • Teddy Makadi (Malawi)
    • Tyler ICU (South Africa)
    • Wanitwamos (South Africa)
    • Yo Maps (Zambia) – Winner
    • Zeze Kingston (Malawi)
    • Kazba De Small (South Africa)

    Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa
    • Babalwa M (South Africa)
    • Hanna (Zimbabwe)
    • Makhadzi (South Africa)
    • Nkosazana Daughter (South Africa)
    • Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa) – Winner
    • Sha Sha (Zimbabwe)
    • Temwah (Malawi)
    • Tyla (South Africa)
    • Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
    • Zee Nxumalo (South Africa)

    Best Male Artiste in Western Africa
    • Asake (Nigeria)
    • Axel Merryl (Benin)
    • Black Sherif (Ghana)
    • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
    • Davido (Nigeria)
    • Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Djodje (Cape Verde)
    • Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
    • VJ (Senegal)
    • Wizkid (Nigeria)

    Best Female Artiste in Western Africa
    • Amaarae (Ghana)
    • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
    • Djelykaba Bintou (Guinea)
    • Josey (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Mariam Ba Lagaré (Mali)
    • Mia Guissé (Senegal)
    • Moliy (Ghana)
    • Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
    • Viviane Chidid (Senegal)
    • Wendy Shay (Ghana) – Winner

    CONTINENTAL CATEGORY

    Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music
    • Christian Mukuna (DRC)
    • Djunny Beatz (Mozambique)
    • Gaise Baba (Nigeria)
    • Israel Mbonyi (Rwanda)
    • Jah Prayzah (Zimbabwe)
    • Joel Lwaga (Tanzania)
    • Kocee (Cameroon)
    • Lawrence Oyor (Nigeria)
    • Milo (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • Sjava (South Africa)

    Best Female Artiste in African Inspirational Music
    • Ada Ehi (Nigeria)
    • Choisie Basolua (DRC)
    • Krys M (Cameroon)
    • Martha Mwaipaja (Tanzania)
    • Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
    • Morijah (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa)
    • Roseline Layo (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Vestine & Dorcas (Rwanda)

    Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Jazz
    • Adrian Younge & Ali Shaheed Muhammad (Ghana)
    • Haddinqo (Ethiopia) – Winner
    • Mádé Kuti (Nigeria)
    • Rorisang Sechele (South Africa)
    • Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane (South Africa)
    • The Cavemen (Nigeria)
    • Alune Wade (Senegal)
    • Nomfundo Xaluva (South Africa)
    • Kyle Shepherd Trio (South Africa)

    Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African Contemporary
    • Fireboy DML (Nigeria)
    • Axel Merryl (Benin) – Winner
    • Espe Bass (Congo B)
    • Bien (Kenya)
    • Jaylann (Morocco)
    • Kizz Daniel, Angélique Kidjo & Johnny Drille (Nigeria)
    • Mbosso (Tanzania)
    • Ferre Gola & Rayvanny (DRC)
    • Didine Canon 16 (Algeria)
    • Wendy Shay (Ghana)

    Best Soundtrack in Movie, Series, or Documentary
    • Igho’le Trap Mix Version (“To Kill a Monkey”: Series) – Oscar Heman-Ackah (Ghana)
    • El Ma2as (“The Start”: Film) – Tamer Hosny, Reda Elbahrawy (Egypt)
    • You Are (“Iyanu”: The Animated Series) – Yemi Alade (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Timpi Tampa (“Timpi Tampa”: The Film) – Ismaël Lo (Senegal)
    • Tori Ife (“Seven Doors”: Series) – Tolu Obanro (Nigeria)
    • Saatte Ragouj (“The Last of the Mohicans” Film) – Kafon (Tunisia)

    Songwriter of the Year
    • Bakhaw Dioum – “Choix” (Mia Guissé ft. Wally B. Seck) (Senegal) – Winner
    • Emel, Jehanny Beth & Camille Berthomier – “Fall in the Light” (Tunisia)
    • Emma’a – “Trop d’amour” (Gabon)
    • Emmanuel Ayobami Alli-Hakeem – “Za” (Anendlessocean) (Nigeria)
    • Ferre Gola – “Amour Illusoire” (DRC)
    • Mohammed Ismail Sharrif – “Rebel Music” (Black Sherif) (Ghana)
    • Mugisha Fred Robinson – “Tombé” (Element Eleéh) (Rwanda)
    • Olamide Adedeji – “Hassibunallah” (Olamide) (Nigeria)
    • Prince Omoferi & Nwamu Francis Chukwudubem – “It Hurts” (Johnny Drille & Don Jazzy) (Nigeria)
    • Victor Ngatuvese Kaune – “Oputuri ‘Queens’” (One Blood Namibia) (Namibia)

    African Fans’ Favourite
    • Ali Jita (Nigeria)
    • Barnaba (Tanzania)
    • BNXN & Rema (Nigeria)
    • Chella (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
    • Innoss’b (DRC)
    • Kizz Daniel (Nigeria)
    • Parazar (Algeria)
    • Faceless (Nigeria)
    • Tul8te (Egypt)

    Best African DJ
    • DJ Malvado (Angola)
    • DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
    • DJ Moh Green (Algeria) – Winner
    • DJ Mombochi (The Congo)
    • DJ Tunez (Nigeria)
    • DJ YK Mule (Nigeria)
    • Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
    • Oscar Mbo (South Africa)
    • Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
    • Woodblock Djs (South Africa)

    Producer of the Year
    • Beneth Seraphin Akatché Koffi (Senegal)
    • Butternut, Xolani Majoz (South Africa)
    • Dina One (Mali)
    • Element Eleéh & Mugisha Fred Robinson (Rwanda) – Winners
    • Jazzworx (South Africa)
    • Progrex (Nigeria)
    • DaVinci (Angola)
    • Tempoe (Nigeria)
    • Themba Sekowe, Gomolemo Joy Gumede, Kabelo Motha (South Africa)

    Album of the Year
    • Ebtadena – Amr Diab (Egypt)
    • No Sign of Weakness – Burna Boy (Nigeria) – Winner
    • 5ive – Davido (Nigeria)
    • Diyilem & Bazarhoff: Genius – Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Ngomoya – DJ Maphorisa & XDuppy (South Africa)
    • Salgoat – El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Big Aka 4 Aka Kai – Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Thato Ya Modimo – Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
    • Idrache (Traces of the Past) – Tinariwen (Mali)

    Best African Video of the Year
    • “Rebel” – Black Sherif (Ghana)
    • “Meta” – Nomcebo Zikode & Sofiya Nzau (South Africa)
    • “Ki Lo Wa Wa” – Yemi Alade (Nigeria)
    • “Timpi Tampa” – Ismaël Lo (Senegal)
    • “Tori Ife” – Tolu Obanro (Nigeria)
    • “Ova” – Mbosso (Tanzania) – Winner
    • “Ololufe” – Juma Jux & Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
    • “Shaolin” – Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
    • “Stk Stk” – Dizzy Dros, Kekra & Norfafrica (Morocco)

    Song of the Year
    • “Isaka (6AM)” – Ciza, Jazzworx & Thukuthela (South Africa)
    • “Bengicela” – Mawhoo Gl Ceejay & Thukuthela (South Africa)
    • “Choix” – Mia Guissé (Senegal)
    • “Diplomatico” – El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • “Kaay Waay” – VJ (Senegal)
    • “Laho” – Shallipopi (Nigeria) – Winner
    • “Ololufe Mi” – Jux & Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
    • “Push 2 Start” – Tyla (South Africa)
    • “Shake it to the Max” – Moliy, Shenseea, Skillibeng & Silent Addy (Ghana)
    • “With You” – Davido (Nigeria)

    Best African Dance/Choreography
    • Jaylann – “Ha Wlidi” (Morocco)
    • Lady Ponce – “Je veux danser” (Cameroon)
    • Rebo – “Mobambo” (DRC)
    • Serge Beynaud – “Taper Dedans” (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Toofan – “Deodorant” (Togo)
    • Tyla – “Push 2 Start” (South Africa)
    • Uncle Waffles & Royal Musiq – “Zenzele” (Eswatini)
    • Weeha – “Dimama” (Ethiopia) – Winner
    • Werrason – “Tout se paie ici bas” (DRC)
    • Wizkid – “Kese” (Nigeria)

    Best African Act Reggae, Ragga & Dancehall
    • Magasco – “Dirty Whine” (Cameroon)
    • Moliy, Shenseea, Skillibeng & Silent Addy – “Shake it to the Max” (Ghana)
    • Ruger & Kranium – “Dudu” (Nigeria)
    • Sean Morgan – “Vuu” (Malawi)
    • Black Sherif – “Rebel Music” (Ghana)
    • Takana Zion – “On My Eyes” (Guinea) – Winner
    • Tiwa Savage – “Forgiveness” (Nigeria)
    • Wakadinli – “Kum Baba” (Kenya)
    • Yemi Alade – “Baddie” (Nigeria)
    • Iyani, Mwanaa & Cedo – “Kifo cha Mende” (Kenya)

    Best African Collaboration
    • Blanche Bailly & Lady Ponce – “Lève toi” (Cameroon)
    • Goon Flavour, Master Kg & Eemoh – “Ngishutheni” (South Africa)
    • Mia Guissé ft. Wally Seck – “Choix” (Senegal)
    • Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea – “Shake It to the Max” (Ghana)
    • Paki Chenzu ft. Himra – “Assaut” (Togo/Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Shallipopi ft. Burna Boy – “Laho” (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Uncle Waffles ft. Cowboii, Royal Musiq, Uncool MC & Xduppy – “Zenzele” (Eswatini)
    • Davido ft. Omah Lay – “With You” (Nigeria)
    • Mawhoo, GL Ceejay & Thukuthela ft. Jazzworx – “Bengicela” (South Africa)
    • Benny Adam & Khadija El Warzazia – “Mok Ya Mok” (Morocco)

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    Most Promising Artiste of the Year
    • Cysoul (Cameroon)
    • Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
    • King Luca (Cameroon)
    • L’Oiseau Rare (Gabon)
    • Lwah Ndlunkulu (South Africa)
    • Massamba Amadeus (Senegal)
    • Qing Madi, Valorant (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Rym (Morocco)
    • Kunmie (Nigeria)
    • Fola (Nigeria)

    Artiste of the Year
    • Amr Diab (Egypt)
    • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
    • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
    • Davido (Nigeria)
    • DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
    • El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Fally Ipupa (DRC)
    • Jux (Tanzania)
    • Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Shallipopi (Nigeria)
    • Tyla (South Africa)

    Breakout Artiste of the Year
    • Blaq Major (South Africa)
    • Ciza (South Africa) – Winner
    • Eboloko (Gabon)
    • Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Marioo (Tanzania)
    • Mawhoo (South Africa)
    • Moliy (Ghana)
    • Shallipopi (Nigeria)
    • Trap King (Algeria)
    • VJ (Senegal)

    Best African Lyricist Rapper
    • ALA (Tunisia)
    • Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • Jessy B (Congo B)
    • Klassafan le Melangeur (Guinea)
    • Nasty C & Usimamane (South Africa)
    • Nyashinski (Kenya)
    • Reminisce (Nigeria)
    • Sarkodie (Ghana)
    • Switch (Libya)
    • Yacou B OG (Mali)

    Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Hiphop
    • ALA ft. Mootjeyek (Tunisia)
    • Cassper Nyovest (South Africa)
    • Eboloko (Gabon)
    • El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Phyno (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Nasty C & Usimamane (South Africa)
    • Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
    • Sarkodie (Ghana)
    • Suspect 95 (Côte d’Ivoire)

    Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African RnB & Soul
    • Bensoul & V- Be (Kenya)
    • Big Zulu ft. Malungelo (South Africa)
    • Braye (Nigeria)
    • Calema (Sao Tome)
    • Emma’a (Gabon)
    • Kunmie (Nigeria)
    • Manal (Morocco)
    • Naledi Aphiwe & Mawelele (South Africa)
    • Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Wegz ft. Tayc (Egypt)

    Best African Duo, Group or Band
    • Babylone (Algeria)
    • Blaq Diamond (South Africa)
    • Celema (Sao Tome & Principe)
    • Team Paiya (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • The Cavemen (Nigeria)
    • Tinariwen (Mali)
    • Toofan (Togo)
    • Vestine & Dorcas (Rwanda)
    • Wapendwa Muziki (Kenya)
    • We Are Nubia (Kenya)

  • Burna Boy never assisted me with N600,000 – Skales 

    Burna Boy never assisted me with N600,000 – Skales 

    Afrobeats singer Skales has refuted claims that his colleague Burna Boy gifted him N600,000 during his period of financial struggle.

    Skales attributed the rumour to a Burna Boy fan on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the claim was fabricated.

    In a recent interview on the Adesope Live show, Skales expressed his disappointment, saying he had to reach out to the fan, identified as Benny, to understand the motive behind the false narrative.

    “There was a time I had to reach out to a Burna Boy fan on Twitter, I think his name is Benny or something. I asked him what I had done to him to warrant the hate he exhibits towards me.

    Read Also: ‘I lived in a hut, slept on mats’- Skales reflects on challenging childhood

    “He created a fake news that there was a time that I was broke and Burna Boy helped me with N600,000. That never happened,” he said.

    The singer urged his peers to be cautious of overzealous fans and to communicate directly to clarify issues, rather than letting misinformation create tension.

  • Burna Boy, VDM visit Kirikiri maximum security custodial centre

    Burna Boy, VDM visit Kirikiri maximum security custodial centre

    The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Lagos State Command, has received popular Nigerian music star, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, alongside social commentator Otse Vincent, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

    The duo paid a courtesy visit to the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Apapa, Lagos, to seek information on legal procedures that would facilitate the discharge of inmates through the payment of fines.

    In a statement on Sunday, the authorities of the custodial centre said the visit was aimed at obtaining first-hand information on the legal and administrative processes involved in releasing inmates eligible for discharge through fine payments, in line with existing laws and correctional regulations.

    The Public Relations Officer of the centre, Osho Onimisi Joseph, said the visitors were received by the newly appointed Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Sanni Richard.

    According to Joseph, Burna Boy and VeryDarkMan were given professional guidance and detailed clarification on procedures relating to fine payments, eligibility criteria, and the legal safeguards put in place to ensure transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with judicial directives.

    Read Also: Shallow religious knowledge responsible for violent extremism in Nigeria – Imam

    He added that the Nigerian Correctional Service reiterated that the payment of fines for eligible inmates is a lawful process strictly guided by court judgments, correctional regulations, and due process.

    He said, “No inmate is released without proper verification, documentation, and authorization in accordance with extant laws.

    “Furthermore, the general public is assured that inmates in NCoS custody are held in safe, secure, and humane conditions, in line with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules), and other internationally accepted best practices.

    “The rights, dignity, welfare, and rehabilitation of inmates remain a core priority of the Service.

    “The Lagos State Command commends individuals and organizations who demonstrate interest in lawful initiatives that promote access to justice, custodial decongestion, and the humane treatment of inmates, while encouraging sustained collaboration within the bounds of the law.

    “The Nigerian Correctional Service remains committed to its statutory mandate of safe custody, humane treatment, reformation, rehabilitation, and the successful reintegration of inmates into society.”

  • Burna Boy unveiled as ON Club president at exclusive clubhouse gathering

    Burna Boy unveiled as ON Club president at exclusive clubhouse gathering

    ON Clubhouse hosted an invitation-only cultural gathering on Tuesday night to celebrate Burna Boy’s emergence as the new ON Club President, drawing a select mix of influential voices, global creatives, and cultural leaders.

    The intimate evening featured a curated dinner, which later transitioned into a private after-party held within the same venue, creating a seamless and immersive experience for guests.

    A highlight of the night was a special performance by renowned Nigerian musician Dede Mabiaku, whose artistry bridges Afro-funk, soul, and live musicianship. Known for his rich, legacy-rooted sound, Mabiaku delivered a performance that infused the space with organic energy, anchoring the celebration in heritage, musical depth, and cultural continuity.

    His appearance underscored the essence of the ON Clubhouse as more than a social gathering, positioning it as a purposeful cultural moment where music, movement, and meaning intersected.

    The event was described as an immersive night designed for individuals who not only participate in culture but also actively shape and define it.