TRACE Awards 2025: Nigerian Stars Shine as Rema, Mercy Chinwo, and Ayra Starr Win Big
The 2025 TRACE Awards, held at the scenic Mora Resort in Zanzibar, Tanzania, on February 26, celebrated the best of African and global music, recognizing outstanding talent across various genres. Nigerian artists once again dominated the event, securing multiple awards in key categories.
Nigerian Artists Steal the Spotlight
Rema, Ayra Starr, Mercy Chinwo, and D’banj were among the night’s biggest winners, solidifying Nigeria’s influence in the global music scene. Rema clinched three major awards, including Album of the Year for Heis, Best Music Video for DND, and Best Male Artist. Gospel sensation Mercy Chinwo took home the Best Gospel Artist award, while veteran musician D’banj received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to African music.
Ayra Starr also made Nigeria proud by winning Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone), a testament to her rising influence in the music industry.
Other Major Winners
The event saw fierce competition among artists from over 30 countries in 24 categories. South African artists also had a strong showing, with Tyla winning Best Female Artist and Song of the Year going to Titom & Yuppe’s Tshwala Bam.
Other winners included:
- Best Collaboration: Coup du Marteau by Tamsir & Team Paiya (Ivory Coast)
- Best Live Performance: Fally Ipupa (DRC)
- Best Producer: P. Priime (Nigeria) for MMS
- Best Hip Hop Artist: Didi B (Ivory Coast)
- Best DJ: DJ Moh Green (Algeria)
Nigeria’s Growing Global Presence
The TRACE Awards 2025 underscored Nigeria’s dominance in African music, with Afrobeats continuing to gain international recognition. Rema, Ayra Starr, and other winners have not only shaped the African sound but also expanded their reach globally.
With the success of Nigerian artists at the TRACE Awards, it is evident that the country remains at the forefront of the Afro-music revolution, setting the pace for future generations of musicians.
