The Trace Awards 2025 nominations have been officially announced.
Zanzibar, Tanzania – The Trace Awards 2025 nominations have been officially announced, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration of African music and its global influence. Scheduled to take place on February 26, 2025, in the picturesque setting of Zanzibar, the awards will honor the best in Afro music across 24 diverse categories.
This year, the nominations reflect the dynamic and evolving landscape of African music, showcasing the talents of artists from over 30 countries including Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe. The Trace Awards, known for spotlighting the richness of genres like Afrobeat, Amapiano, dancehall, hip-hop, and more, continue to serve as a platform for recognizing both established stars and emerging talents.
Song of the Year nominations have seen a fierce competition, with standout tracks like Tyla’s “Jump”, Tyler ICU’s “Mnike”, and Burna Boy’s “Higher” making the list. These songs have not only dominated airwaves but have also crossed cultural boundaries, gaining international acclaim. The inclusion of tracks like Rema & Shallipopi’s “Benin Boys” and Diamond Platnumz’s “Komasawa” further showcases the diversity and creativity within the African music scene.
For Album of the Year, the lineup is equally impressive, featuring albums that have set new standards in music production and storytelling. Among the nominees are Rema’s “HEIS”, a project that has been lauded for its innovative sound, and Burna Boy’s “I Told Them”, which continues to solidify his status as a genre-defining artist. Amaarae’s “Fountain Baby”, Stonebwoy’s “5th Dimension”, and Asake’s “Lungu Boy” also stand out, each bringing unique flavors to the table.
In the Best Female Artist category, a powerful array of talent is recognized with artists like Ayra Starr, known for her melodious voice and captivating performances, and Tems, whose soulful music has won hearts worldwide. Other nominees include Josey, Makhadzi from South Africa, Tyla, and Yemi Alade, each bringing their distinct style and contribution to the music industry.
The Best Male Artist category is no less competitive, featuring Nigerian stars Asake, Burna Boy, and Rema alongside Diamond Platnumz from Tanzania and Dlala Thukzin from South Africa. These artists have not only made significant impacts locally but have also carved out spaces for themselves on the international scene.
Best DJ nominations spotlight the pivotal role DJs play in shaping music culture, with South Africa’s Tyler ICU, Uncle Waffles, DJ Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small being recognized for their contributions to the Amapiano genre and beyond. This reflects the genre’s growing influence and the DJs’ role in its global spread.
Best Collaboration is another category to watch, with Asake and Wizkid’s “MMS” being a notable mention, highlighting the magic that happens when two major forces in African music come together.
Voting for the Trace Awards 2025 opened on January 2, 2025, allowing fans worldwide to have their say in deciding the winners.
As the awards approach, the excitement builds not only for the potential winners but for the cultural celebration that the Trace Awards represent, acknowledging the global impact of African music and its role in shaping contemporary music trends.
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