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Tag: Headies

  • FirstBank, Headies to promote creativity

    FirstBank, Headies to promote creativity

    FirstBank Plc has partnered with the Headies Awards for its 17th edition, which was held recently in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The collaboration, according to a statement, underscores FirstBank’s commitment to supporting creative talents and SMEs within the creative industry, thus, providing them with the platform for international acclaim and recognition.

    The Headies, the statement added, is a leading music awards show celebrating top talents in Nigeria and Africa while providing a platform for upcoming and established artists.

    Since its inception in 2006, the Headies has consistently spotlighted the best in Nigerian and African music, attracting millions of viewers annually. After two successful editions in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, the Headies returned  to its roots in Nigeria.

    FirstBank was announced as the first financial institution to partner with Headies.

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    This historic and pioneering collaboration underscores FirstBank’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian creative industry while reinforcing its brand values of innovation, excellence and cultural empowerment.

    According to Olayinka Ijabiyi, Ag. Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication, FirstBank : “We are thrilled to partner with the Headies Awards, an amazing platform that celebrates the very best of Nigerian and African music. At FirstBank, we believe in supporting arts and creativity and this partnership is a perfect embodiment of our commitment. The Headies Awards aligns with our First@arts initiative which supports the entire creative arts value chain – including performing arts, visual arts, and music, reflecting the bank’s commitment to nurturing talents, promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, driving national growth, and unlocking business opportunities in the creative arts sector”.

    Ayo Animashaun, the founder of The Headies stated : “The Headies Awards have been instrumental in promoting and celebrating Afrobeats, providing a platform for artists to gain recognition and break into the global market. We are excited about the partnership with FirstBank, a milestone collaboration that will undoubtedly elevate this year’s event and further solidify Afrobeats’ position as a dominant force in the global music landscape.”

  • Headies 17th edition set to celebrate Nigeria’s music stars tonight

    Headies 17th edition set to celebrate Nigeria’s music stars tonight

    The 17th edition of The Headies is set to light up the Landmark Event Centre tonight, uniting Nigeria’s music superstars and creatives for a grand celebration.

    Returning after a hiatus last year, the awards ceremony will also host a second edition later this year.

    Featuring 31 categories, including Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year, and Next Rated, the night promises intense competition.

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    The Artiste of the Year category showcases a superstar lineup with Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, Tems, Asake, and Rema vying for the prestigious title.

    These artists have dominated the music scene during the year under review (April 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024) with chart-topping hits and tours.

    The Headies has evolved into more than a music awards ceremony, introducing the Headies Creative Summit to address industry trends and nurture emerging talents.

    With glitz, glamour, and the recognition of outstanding achievements, the night is set to shine brightly for Nigerian music.

  • We should support our own, Headies founder criticises Nigeria’s obsession with Grammys

    We should support our own, Headies founder criticises Nigeria’s obsession with Grammys

    Founder of The Headies Awards, Ayo Animashaun has expressed disappointment with Nigeria’s fixation on the Grammy Awards. 

    In an interview on Channels TV, Animashaun questioned why Nigerians prioritise international recognition over supporting their music industry.

    Animashaun noted that the Grammys are more popular in Lagos than in America, emphasising that Nigerians should focus on their own awards and industry. 

    He criticised the idea that international recognition is the ultimate validation, stating that Americans don’t care about Nigerian music as much as Nigerians think they do.

    Animashaun shared his personal experience attending various international award shows, including the Grammys, American Music Awards, and Oscars. 

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    He observed that many Americans are unaware of these events, whereas Nigerians are deeply invested in them.

    He argued that this obsession with international awards comes at the expense of supporting Nigeria’s own music industry. 

    Animashaun urged Nigerians to prioritise their own awards and initiatives.

    He said: “Grammy is more popular on the streets of Lagos in Nigeria than it is now in America. We have our own for God’s sake, kilode gan?

    “We actually think they care about us, but wake up—they don’t. We’re popping now, so they’re giving us one nomination, and the whole country is making noise about it.

    “This year, I didn’t go for the Grammys. I was there last year and have attended several others—American Music Awards, BET, World Music Awards, Oscars, MTV—you name it, I’ve been there many times.

    “When I talk to people in those cities, some don’t even know the events are happening. But in Nigeria, we know more about their awards than they do. We keep hyping what’s not ours. They’ll support their own awards and industry, and we’ll keep supporting theirs. So, who will support our own? And I’m not just talking about the Headies here.

    “We keep supporting what’s not ours and neglect our own. The Headies plaque is 21-karat gold-plated with copper—bring theirs and put it beside ours and see if it’s less valuable,” he said.

  • Headies ‘most credible Award’ worldwide – Ruger

    Headies ‘most credible Award’ worldwide – Ruger

    Afrobeats sensation Ruger has taken a subtle swipe at the Headies Awards in a recent post on his X account.

    The singer’s comment comes after the announcement of the 17th Headies Award nominees, which sparked controversy due to notable omissions.

    Ruger’s post appears to be laced with sarcasm as he referred to the Headies as the “most credible award event in the whole world.”

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    He thanked the organisers for recognising the hard work of “ALL ARTISTS and ALL PROJECTS”.

    Ruge concluded with a prediction that the Headies will soon be “bigger than all the awards in the whole world.”

    “Shoutout to the most credible award event in the whole world THE HEADIES. Thank you for recognising the hard work of ALL ARTISTS and ALL PROJECTS. Very soon, you will be bigger than all the awards in the whole world. Amen,” he wrote.

  • Headies 2023: Organisers host nominees party

    Headies 2023: Organisers host nominees party

    The Nigerian music industry’s most anticipated event, the Headies Awards, set the stage for a night of glitz and celebration with a nominees party which was held at the Eko Hotel and Suites.

    Amidst an atmosphere charged with excitement and anticipation, the nominees, artistes, entertainment journalists, and music enthusiasts gathered to celebrate ahead of the 2023 Headies Awards ceremony slated to hold on September 2, in Atlanta, U.S.

    The event was a glamorous showcase of the country’s finest musical talents, with a fusion of style, energy, and camaraderie.

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    The nominees party provided a platform for the nominees to mingle, exchange ideas, and share their excitement for the forthcoming awards.

    Attendees eagerly anticipated the awards night, where winners in various categories would be recognised and celebrated for their exceptional contributions.

    As the excitement from the nominees’ party lingers, the anticipation for the Headies Awards ceremony continues to build.

  • Actress Osas Ighodaro, Terrence Jenkins set to host Headies 16th Awards

    Actress Osas Ighodaro, Terrence Jenkins set to host Headies 16th Awards

    Famous American actor Terrence Jenkins and Nigerian actress Osas Ighodaro are geared towards hosting the long-anticipated 16th Headies Awards.

    The awards ceremony will take place on Sunday at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta.

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    Terrence, the event’s first-time host, is excited to be a part of what is likely to be an incredible experience.

    Speaking, he said: “I’ve done a lot of big shows. There’s a lot of red carpet, and I’m excited about doing this.”

  • Diddy, Asake, Fireboy, Wande Coal to perform at 16th Headies

    Diddy, Asake, Fireboy, Wande Coal to perform at 16th Headies

    Along list of performers have been announced as organisers of Headies prepare for the 16th edition in Atlanta, United States of America.

     In a recent statement, the list of performers for the event is led by American cum global rap star and music executive, Sean Combs aka Diddy.

     Diddy, according to the organisers, is joined by wave-making Nigerian Afrobeats stars including Asake, Ayra Starr, Fireboy, Blaqbonez, Johnny Drille, KCee, and Oxlade.

     Others are Rema, Seyi Vibez, Spyro, Victony, and Wande Coal while 63-year-old Senegalese singer, Youssou Ndour will be inducted into the Hall of Fame for his contribution and strides in world music.

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     The 16th edition of the Headies is billed to hold on Sunday, September 3 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.

     Meanwhile, rising Afrobeats stars Bayaani, Odumodu Blvck, Guchi, Eltee and Khaid are in contest for the ultimate prize of a two bedroom solar-powered home in Lekki. The house prize, which is being bankrolled by Citadel Views Estate, is to complement the 16th Headies award for the Rookie of the Year category.

  • Niniola explains flop at Headies

    Niniola, who was one of the performing acts at the just concluded Headies Awards, has come out to give explanations for the below rated performance on Saturday.

    She took to Instagram to write about the experience.

    “I am thankful to everyone that messaged and called to enquire about my performance at the Headies Awards,” she began.

    “It shows a clear understanding of the typical nature of my stagecraft. I honestly was not going to address this issue but I was very firmly convinced within me that I owed each and every one of you a detailed explanation on why I had a performance that was far below the usual expectation of my performances.

    “I had flown in from Owerri after a performance yesterday (the afternoon of the Headies), to grace the award event that has served as a platform for us as entertainers and I, unfortunately, could not rehearse with the band or even work on any performance set for the show. I promptly informed the organizers and the Production Company engaged to oversee the flow of the show that I would not be performing as I am very particular about my brand and the performance delivery I give to my friends and supporters that have helped my career to the point that it is today.

    “I was informed that the song would be played and dancers would have their set to it. It was however to my greatest surprise that the host called my name for the performance. Here I was, not dressed for a performance, stunned, dazed and in disarray. If I refused to stand up and respond to the announcement, I would come off as being arrogant and badly behaved (most likely comments would be made about how little fame and success have gotten to my head) since everyone knew I was in the hall. On the flipside, if I went on stage, I was likely to be out of tune with the band and the entire set which I had not rehearsed for”.

  • Davido, Wizkid, Small Doctor, others win 2018 Headies awards

    Popular entertainers Davido and Small Doctor are among the numerous artistes that won the 2018 Headies awards early on Sunday.

    While millionaire Davido won the award as Best Pop single and artist of the year, Small Doctor won the 2018 best street hop artiste.

    Others are MI- Best rap single; Teni- Rookie of the year; Reminisce- Best rap album.

    Others are – Innocent Idibia (2face) and Ayodeji Balogun (Wizkid).

    The awards on Saturday night, stretching into the early hours of Sunday were given at the 12th edition of HEADIES which took place at the Eko Convention Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The Headies award formerly known as the Hip Hop World Awards was established in 2006 by the Hip Hop World Magazine of Nigeria to recognise outstanding achievements in the Nigerian music industry.

    It usually features performances by established and promising artists.

    Wizkid received the best music video award, the best R and B pop album award and the viewers’ choice award for his song ” Come closer”.

    2face had the best reggae dancehall single award for his song ” Holyholy”.

    Other winners are Mayorkun with next rated award; Omawumi- female best vocal performance; Praiz- male best vocal performance; Nasty C- Africa artiste of the year; Aramide- Best Alternative Song.

    Simi- Best recording of the year; Yemi Alade- Best Performer; Tiwa Savage- Best collabo; Kidominant- Producer of the year; MI- Lyricist on the roll.

    Lagos State and some companies were recognised as industry brand ambassadors.

    They were MTN, Globacom, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Nigerian Breweries, Pepsi, and Hennessey.

    The Headies Highest Winners:

    Wizkid 4:
    Best Collabo
    Best Music Video
    Viewer’s Choice Award
    Best Pop/RnB Album

    Simi 3
    Album of the Year
    Recording of the Year
    Best RnB Song

    Davido 3
    Song of the Year
    Artiste of the Year
    Best Pop Single

    *All the Winners:

    Best Recording of The Year

    Joromi – Simi

    Best Pop Single

    If – DavidO

    Producer of the Year

    Kidominant – Fall, Mama

    Best Reggae/DanceHall Single

    Holy Holy – 2Baba

    Best Rap Album

    El Hadj – Reminisce

    Best RnB/Pop Album

    Sounds From The Other Side – Wizkid

    Best Music Video

    Come Closer – Wizkid (DAPS)

    Best RnB Single

    Smile For Me – Simi

    Best Collaboration

    Malo – Tiwa Savage Ft. Wizkid

    Best Rap Single

    You Rappers Should Fix Up Your Lives – M.I.

    Best Vocal Performance (Male)

    Praiz – Folashade

    Best Vocal Performance (Female)

    Omawumi – Butterflies

    Next Rated

    Mayorkun

    HipHop World Revelation

    Reekado Banks

    Lyricist On The Roll

    You Rappers Should Fix Your Live – M.I.

    Best Street-Hop Artiste

    Small Doctor – Penalty

    Best Alternative Song

    Fun Mi Lowo Mi – Aramide Ft. Sound Sultan & Koker

    Album of the Year

    Simisola – Simi

    Artiste Of The Year

    Davido

    Song Of the Year

    If – Davido

    African Artiste of the Year

    Nasty C

    Headies Viewer’s Choice

    Come Closer – Wizkid

    Best Performer

    Yemi Alade

    Rookie of the Year

    Teni

    Brand Supporter

    MTN

    Pepsi

    Glo

    Hennessy

    FIRS

    Nigeria Breweries

    Lagos State

    Headies Hall of Fame

    Chris Ubosi

    Special Recognition

    Kaffy

  • Simi leads Headies award nominations

    THIS seems to be one of the best moments in the career of sonorous singer, Simi, as her latest album, Simisola, is getting her so many accolades and recognition.

    At the moment, the serial award winning X3M music artiste leads the female pack in this year’s edition of Headies Award scheduled to hold on May 5, 2018 in Lagos.

    With six nominations in all, Simi ranks among the artistes with the highest number of nominations in the award, while other female artistes got less than three nominations each.

    Nominated in categories including Best vocal Performance (female) for her song, ‘Gone for Good’,  her hit song, Joromi was nominated  in the Best Recording of the Year category while her album, ‘Simisola’  was nominated in the Best R&B/Pop Album and Album of the year categories respectively.  Also, her hit single, ‘Smile for Me’, will compete in the Best R&B Single category.

    In addition, her collaboration in Adekunle Gold’s No Forget, was also nominated in the Best Collabo category.

    Also, her label mate, Praiz, got two nominations at the award. Praiz was nominated in the Best R&B single category and the best vocal performance category.