The Headies 2024: Odumodu Blvck Leads Nominations as Mohbad Earns Posthumous Recognition
Nigeria’s most prestigious music award show, The Headies, has officially unveiled its nominations for the 17th edition, celebrating the biggest names in the industry. This year’s list features a mix of established superstars and rising talents who have significantly impacted the music scene over the past year.
Leading the nominations is Tochukwu Ojogwu, popularly known as Odumodu Blvck, who earned five nods. Following closely behind are Ayra Starr and Shallipopi, each securing three nominations. Notably, Odumodu Blvck is a strong contender in the Best Collaboration category with two entries, where he competes against industry heavyweights like Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Chike.
A particularly emotional moment for fans comes with the posthumous recognition of late artist Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka Mohbad, who secured three nominations despite passing away on September 12, 2023. His inclusion highlights his lasting influence on the Nigerian music landscape.
Key Categories and Nominees
The 17th edition of the Headies features a broad range of categories, celebrating everything from vocal performances to production, songwriting, and collaborations.
Best Vocal Performance (Female) sees Ayra Starr, Niniola, Simi, Liya, and Yemi Alade competing for the top spot. Meanwhile, Best Rap Single has Odumodu Blvck’s collaboration with Shallipopi (“Cast”) and Bloody Civilian’s “Blood on the Dance Floor” among the frontrunners.
Rising stars also take the spotlight in the Rookie of the Year category, where artists like Zerry DL, Taves, and Kaestyle battle for the coveted title. Similarly, the Best R&B Single category features hitmakers like Qing Madi, Johnny Drille, Simi, Tems, and Ayra Starr.
Other notable categories include Songwriter of the Year, which recognizes lyrical excellence, and Best Street-Hop Artiste, celebrating the vibrant Nigerian street music scene. Meanwhile, Producer of the Year honors top producers like Sarz, London, Magicsticks, and Dibs for their outstanding contributions to Afrobeats.
Best Collaboration and Afrobeats Recognition
The Best Collaboration category is one of the most competitive, featuring tracks such as “Blood on the Dance Floor” by Odumodu Blvck, “Ole” by Qing Madi and BNXN, and Kizz Daniel’s remix of “Twe Twe” featuring Davido.
In the Afrobeats Single of the Year category, major anthems such as “Big Big Things” by Young John featuring Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez, “Remember” by Asake, and “Egwu” by Chike featuring Mohbad are all in the running.
A Night to Celebrate Nigerian Music Excellence
The Headies remains the ultimate recognition of excellence in Nigerian music, showcasing both mainstream and emerging artists who are shaping the industry. With an exciting blend of competition, talent, and emotional tributes, the 17th edition promises to be a historic celebration of Nigerian music.
As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await the winners’ announcement and the spectacular performances that will define this year’s ceremony.
