The next generation of emcees is here. Billboard Baby is stepping to the OVERTIME mic with bars, rizz and everything else. Harlem has another one! Salute to LoMuzik on the beat. Press play and check out the next up on Overtime.
Tap in with Sway’s Universe and Bar HVY for new freestyle drops that are coming your way every week! For independent artists looking to get their music heard, DistroKid has your back. With features designed to take your hustle to the next level, you can release unlimited tracks to all the major platforms—Spotify, YouTube, Tik Tok—and keep 100% of your earnings. If you’re about your craft and ready to level up, now’s the time to tap in. Watch the freestyle, and make moves with DistroKid.
Women’s History Month is a time to honor the achievements of women who have shaped the world with resilience, innovation, and passion. Throughout history, Black women have stood at the forefront of progress, challenging societal norms and breaking barriers in every field imaginable. Their contributions inspire generations, uplifting entire communities through their courage and creativity. Today, Sway’s Universe salutes 15 phenomenal Black women whose work embodies empowerment, perseverance, and excellence.
Ashley Imani
Ashley Imani is a force of creativity and boundless talent, weaving her brilliance seamlessly across music, roller skating, and fashion. With over 200 electrifying performances alongside Usher and a show-stopping appearance at the 2024 Super Bowl, Ashley’s presence onstage is magnetic. Her music, which boasts two releases and several buzzing singles, resonates with individuality and self-expression. Beyond the music world, Ashley has collaborated with premier brands such as Nike, Coach, Apple, and Adidas, shaping cutting-edge campaigns. An entrepreneurial powerhouse, Ashley Imani is a role model for chasing dreams and expressing authenticity in every endeavor.
Beverly Bond
Beverly Bond is a groundbreaking cultural curator, visionary leader, and founder of BLACK GIRLS ROCK!, an empowering movement amplifying the visibility and influence of Black women in media, culture, and society. A celebrated DJ for high-profile clients like Barack Obama, Alicia Keys, and Prince, Bond channeled her passion for representation into creating the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards, which grew to an annual viewership of 10 million on BET, alongside her best-selling book BLACK GIRLS ROCK!: Owning Our Magic, Rocking Our Truth featuring insights from icons like Michelle Obama and Rihanna. She expanded her impact with BGR!FEST, a vibrant arts festival, and nonprofit programs like BLACK GIRLS LEAD, mentoring over 5,000 girls globally. Bond’s work has earned numerous accolades, including NAACP Image Awards, Gracie Awards, and EBONY Magazine’s Power 100 recognition, solidifying her influence as a trailblazer shaping history and uplifting Black women worldwide.
Bevy Smith
Bevy Smith is the ultimate embodiment of reinvention and unapologetic self-expression. Once a luxury fashion executive, Bevy pivoted to a front-facing media career, earning acclaim as the host of Sirius XM’s “Bevelations” and as a TED Talk sensation with “It Gets Greater Later™,” which amassed millions of views. Her book, Bevelations, captures her wisdom on living boldly and authentically. From co-hosting groundbreaking shows like Fashion Queens to pursuing acting in popular series like HARLEM, Bevy’s charisma and vision inspire countless people to pursue new paths, no matter the stage of life.
DJ Miss Milan
Dynamic and electrifying, DJ Miss Milan is a Grammy-winning mix master who has captivated audiences worldwide. Known for her high-energy performances as the official DJ for Doechii, she’s spun magic alongside legends like Beyoncé and Katy Perry. With her community initiative EMPWR Beats, DJ Miss Milan carves out space for women DJs to thrive in the male-dominated music industry. Through her seamless and viral mashups, she invites the world to dance, while empowering others to use creativity as a force for connection.
Heather B
Heather B is a trailblazer whose versatility knows no bounds. Emerging as a hip-hop artist and reality TV star on MTV’s The Real World, Heather transitioned into an entrepreneurial and creative powerhouse. Her beauty salon, Nubian Nails and Hair, represents her commitment to uplifting her community, while her role as co-host on Sway in the Morning continues to amplify diverse voices. Whether through music, cooking or her site, The HappyHour with Heather B, she inspires connection, business innovation, and authentic storytelling.
Nedra Dickson
A titan of global supply chain innovation, Nedra Dickson’s work in sustainability and procurement fosters inclusivity on a deeply impactful scale. At Accenture, she leads groundbreaking initiatives that uplift small businesses, mentoring entrepreneurs in over 40 countries. Her efforts have bolstered more than 260 businesses worldwide, creating thousands of jobs. With prestigious awards recognizing her leadership, Nedra’s commitment to collaboration, diversity, and economic growth showcases the true power of equitable progress.
Rapsody
Rapsody’s artistry transcends music; it’s a cultural movement. The Grammy-winning rapper and lyricist has spent over a decade reshaping hip-hop through piercing lyricism and poignant storytelling. Her critically acclaimed albums, including Please Don’t Cry, Laila’s Wisdom and Eve, honor Black womanhood while pushing societal conversations forward. With accolades such as Lyricist of the Year and collaborations with icons like Kendrick Lamar, Rapsody’s influence reflects her ability to unite vulnerability with technical brilliance, empowering audiences through each rhyme.
Regina “Califa” Calloway
Regina “Califa” Calloway has dedicated her life to preserving the cultural heritage of the African Diaspora. Through her work as a historian, performer, and community leader, Regina bridges generations with storytelling and ancestral wisdom. She has collaborated with renowned dance companies and curated acclaimed artistic showcases, ensuring that cultural expression remains a vibrant force for connection and empowerment. Her organization, nzoCALIFA Presents, represents decades of expertise driving sustainable futures for the arts.
Rocsii Woolley
Rocsii Woolley’s life mission is building pathways where others see obstacles. From overcoming homelessness to becoming the Founder of The Source LA, Rocsii has transformed adversity into advocacy. Her work connects underserved communities to housing, employment, and mentorship programs. An expert in business solutions, she empowers entrepreneurs through her leadership at the Watts Business Source Center and Black Professionals Network. Rocsii’s determination and compassion are testaments that success blooms when empowerment meets action.
Samara Joy
With a voice that stops time, Samara Joy has cemented her place in the jazz world as a luminous talent. The Grammy-winning artist, celebrated as Best New Artist, channels the spirit of jazz legends while carving her modern path. From her debut album to her groundbreaking release Linger Awhile, Samara’s soulful interpretations captivate audiences and critics alike. With every note, she preserves the rich legacy of jazz while lighting its way into the future.
Storm Debarge
Storm DeBarge’s influence extends far beyond choreography. Her work with icons like Kendrick Lamar and Mary J. Blige has made waves across the entertainment industry, while her company, The LAnd Casting and Production, champions authentic Black narratives in media. Passionate about cultivating talent, Storm’s foundation supports young dancers in underserved neighborhoods. Her artistry and leadership unite movement and purpose, leaving a vibrant legacy within dance culture.
Tamika D. Mallory
Tamika Mallory is a powerful voice in the fight for justice and equity. Known for co-chairing the historic Women’s March on Washington, her activism spans causes like criminal justice reform and gun violence prevention. Tamika’s heart-stirring speech in response to George Floyd’s murder became a call to action for millions. A seasoned organizer, her commitment to change proves that activism paired with determination transforms communities.
Tamra Goins
With over 25 years of experience in representation and production, Tamra Goins champions a new wave of talent. Her leadership at Innovative Artists builds bridges between underrepresented voices and mainstream success. As the executive behind Shaquille O’Neal’s All-Star Comedy Jam, Tamra has helped comedians carve distinguished careers while fostering inclusive practices across entertainment sectors. Her influence paves the way for diverse storytelling in comedy and beyond.
Fawn Weaver & Victoria Eady Butler
Fawn Weaver and Victoria Eady Butler are rewriting history as trailblazers in the spirits industry. Fawn, the CEO of Uncle Nearest Inc., is one of the few Black women to lead a billion-dollar company, while Victoria, the first Black master blender for a major brand, has earned multiple awards for her craft. Together, they honor the legacy of Nearest Green, the first Black master distiller, and provide scholarships through the Nearest Green Foundation, ensuring that opportunity lifts future generations.
These 15 exceptional women epitomize strength, resilience, and innovation. They’ve shattered barriers and built bridges, leaving an indelible mark on our world. This Women’s History Month, their stories remind us of the boundless possibilities that emerge when courage meets vision.
It’s official! The beloved Sirius XM morning show Sway in the Morning, known for its cultural credibility, legendary interviews, and unparalleled energy, is going bi-coastal! Starting soon, fans on both coasts can wake up to Sway in the Morning as it broadcasts from two iconic cities — Los Angeles and New York City.
Sway Calloway Returns to LA After 25 Years
Hall of Fame Radio personality Sway Calloway is heading back to Los Angeles after more than two decades. For fans who’ve been following him from his beginnings as a Bay Area radio pioneer to his groundbreaking moments in music and media to being syndicated in Los Angeles in the 2000’s, this return is monumental. The syndication was the first of its kind across multiple continents Paris, Japan , Greenland , West Indies, Hawaii and 30 markets across the USA. This move back to Los Angeles marks a full-circle moment in Sway’s illustrious career, as he brings his magnetic presence and unmatched credibility back to a city that has deeply influenced his life and work.
Joining him on this exciting new chapter is his legendary co-host, hip-hop’s most celebrated lyricist, Heather B., an icon in her own right. Known for her trailblazing rap career, reality TV stardom as a cast member of The Real World, acting roles, and her fan-favorite culinary segments, Heather B. has made a lasting mark in music, television, and culture. Together, Sway and Heather B. will anchor the Sway in the Morning team from their new Los Angeles studio, continuing to create moments that resonate far beyond the airwaves.
A Team That Stays Coast-to-Coast Meanwhile, the heart of the team back in New York remains strong. Fan favorites Tracy G, DJ DB, and Producer Torch will continue to hold it down in the New York studio, ensuring that the East Coast energy stays alive and thriving. This bi-coastal evolution solidifies Sway in the Morning as a national powerhouse, connecting fans from coast to coast like never before.
A Legacy of Unmatched Interviews From music to Hollywood, Sway in the Morning has long been celebrated as the ultimate platform for authentic conversations with the biggest stars. Over the years, the show has sat down with music legends like Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, EVE, Tyler, The Creator, Chris Brown, Childish Gambino, and emerging global stars like DJ Uncle Waffles. On the Hollywood side, A-listers such as Halle Berry, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Bill Murray, Martin Lawrence, Julia Stiles, and Tyler James Williams have trusted the show for honest and engaging interviews. The expansion to LA opens the door for even more epic connections with the worlds of music, film, and culture.
Integrity and Cultural Credibility at Its Core Through its growth, Sway in the Morning remains steadfast in its mission — to be a space where artists, entertainers, and influencers connect with fans in an authentic way. A trusted platform for deep conversations, breaking news, and unforgettable stories, it’s the show you count on for integrity and cultural relevance — from coast to coast.
Tune in and Be Part of the Evolution You can catch Sway in the Morning weekdays from 8am to 12pm ET on Sirius XM Radio, channel 45 (SHADE 45). Whether you’re on the East Coast, West Coast, or somewhere in between, the energy, insight, and inspiration of Sway in the Morning is now closer than ever. And you can catch all of these moments on the Sway’s Universe YouTube channel.
This isn’t just a move — it’s a moment. Keep rocking with the show that’s shaping culture and making history. The morning radio revolution is officially bi-coastal!
Lady Luck has been doing her thing for years. Since she signed her deal with Def Jam she has done TV, launched several successful businesses and dropped plenty of music. And through all that she has stayed barred up. Always the wordsmith, Luck stopped by OVERTIME and absolutely bodied a Stan Da Man beat. Check out everything Lady Luck is doing here from her exclusive line of Black Seed Oil to the custom crowns you see in the images below. Then press play to this flame of a freestyle!
Tap in with Sway’s Universe and Bar HVY for new freestyle drops that are coming your way every week! For independent artists looking to get their music heard, DistroKid has your back. With features designed to take your hustle to the next level, you can release unlimited tracks to all the major platforms—Spotify, YouTube, Tik Tok—and keep 100% of your earnings. If you’re about your craft and ready to level up, now’s the time to tap in. Watch the freestyle, and make moves with DistroKid.
Straight outta Inglewood, CA, AJ, the One is making major waves and proving she’s a force to be reckoned with in the rap game. Already solidified as one of the hottest rising stars from her city, AJ’s been applying pressure with back-to-back bangers. She’s been feeding the streets with fan-favorite projects like herReal In the Field EP, Bussin’ Out the Box, and her latest release, Told You Not to FWM EP.
Now, she’s back with a fun new visual for Huff N Puff ,directed by nnylak straight off the Told You Not to FWM EP. This video is a whole vibe—tapping into the real LA energy, where the baddies link up for a lit day outside. AJ’s raw bars, unmatched confidence, and undeniable West Coast flavor make this one a must-watch.
Run up the Huff N Puffvideo now, and make sure to stream Told You Not to FWM, available on all DSPs. Be sure to follow and stay in the loop with AJ HERE.
C-Nice, the talented rapper and songwriter from Long Beach, CA, has firmly established himself in hip-hop with a career that has collaborations with heavyweights like Kendrick Lamar and an impressive catalog of songwriting credits for numerous artists. Known for his distinctive sound, sharp lyricism, and entrepreneurial spirit, C-Nice continues to push creative boundaries.
During Black History Month, he took his artistry to another level by spotlighting 15 Black-owned businesses, crafting unique freestyles, and delivering visually stunning content to celebrate each one. He closed out his impactful Lyrical Spotlight Series with a heartfelt tribute to Sway, honoring his legendary contributions to the culture. This initiative was more than just a display of talent—it was a powerful statement on supporting Black excellence.
With momentum on his side, we’re excited to see what C-Nice has in store for 2025. His dedication to both the art and the culture proves that he’s not just making music—he’s making an impact. Stay connected with C-Nice HERE
Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Darkchild has officially signed rising hip-hop duo West Indies—Jon Keith and Miles Minnick—to his Alienz Alive label, setting the stage for an explosive new era in music. Their highly anticipated self-titled debut album has officially dropped, packed with star-powered features, including an intro by DJ Hed and an interlude from the legendary Sway. With production from the talented Scootie Wop, this project is primed to make waves.
Adding even more heat to the announcement, BET is premiering the electrifying Darkchild-co-produced track “Club”, a standout cut from the album that promises to set the scene on fire. Fans have already been hyped by the duo’s first two singles, “HIM” and “LOOK”, and now the full vision of WEST INDIESis finally coming to life. This album isn’t just music—it’s a movement. Blending high-energy West Coast vibes and a deep connection to their cultural roots, Jon Keithand Miles Minnick are delivering a project that’s bold, authentic, and impossible to ignore! Check it out now available on DSP’s
It has been a long time coming! Jabubu was supposed to make his debut on OVERTIME back during the pandemic after winning our OVERTIME March Madness competition. But due to unforeseen circumstances things didn’t work for that timing. But everything happens for a reason and it was worth the wait because he absolutely bodied two Happy Walter’s beats this go round for 6 minutes straight!
There are not too many emcees coming out of Providence Rhode Island, so Jabubu is definitely putting on for the town. Be sure to follow him and Happy Walters and press play asap on that freestyle!
Tap in with Sway’s Universe and Bar HVY for new freestyle drops that are coming your way every week! For independent artists looking to get their music heard, DistroKid has your back. With features designed to take your hustle to the next level, you can release unlimited tracks to all the major platforms—Spotify, YouTube, Tik Tok—and keep 100% of your earnings. If you’re about your craft and ready to level up, now’s the time to tap in. Watch the freestyle, and make moves with DistroKid.
Get ready for a night of glamour, music, and celebration as one of the world’s most prestigious musical events, The Headies Awards, returns to its vibrant roots in Lagos, Nigeria, on April 5th, 2024. After two successful years in Atlanta, Georgia, this monumental celebration of Afrobeats, African music, and culture is back where it all began, reconnecting fans and artists with the heart and soul of the movement.
This year, The Headies continues to honor exceptional talent while bridging the gap between Africa and the globe. The event’s return to Lagos isn’t just a location shift; it’s a homecoming—a powerful recognition of the continent’s pulsating energy and its growing influence on the global music scene.
The Spotlight on Global Collaboration
One of the standout categories this year is “International Artist of the Year,” which features an eclectic mix of global icons who have left indelible marks on Afrobeats. Whether it’s the electrifying energy of Wale and Odumodublvck’s “Blood On The Dance Floor,” Skepta’s sharp flow in “Tony Montana,” or Chris Brown and Davido’s harmonious connection in “Hmmm,” this category exemplifies the universal reach of African sounds. Travis Scott’s dynamic track “Active” featuring the unmistakable vibes of Asake, and Chloe Bailey’s stunning reinterpretation in “Vision Remix” alongside Qing Madi, further highlight how Afrobeats inspires and uplifts artists across the world.
These collaborations and contributions show how African music has become a driving force shaping today’s global soundscape. They’re not just honoring these artists; they’re spotlighting the movement that has won hearts everywhere.
A Celebration of African Excellence
Leading the pack of nominations this year are powerhouses like Rema and Ayra Starr, whose seven nods speak volumes about their creativity and impact. Tems, one of the genre’s most enchanting voices, follows closely with six nominations. Meanwhile, global icons like Davido and Burna Boy, who continue to redefine what it means to be African music royalty, also command well-deserved recognition with multiple nominations.
But The Headies isn’t just about the big names. It’s a platform for rising stars, trailblazers, and trendsetters who represent the diversity and depth of African music. From the streets of West Africa to the vibrant beats of East, Central, North, and Southern Africa, the awards bring together voices and rhythms that define a continent. Artists like Shallipopi, Qing Madi, Black Sherif, and Bruce Melodie continue to remind us that Africa’s musical tapestry is as vast as it is rich.
More Than an Awards Show
For over a decade, The Headies has stood as a beacon of inspiration, empowering dreams, fostering creativity, and redefining narratives about African music and culture. It’s more than lights and trophies; it’s about artists whose stories resonate with the struggles, triumphs, and beauty of the African experience. It’s about nurturing emerging voices while honoring the legends who have paved the way.
Here is the full list of nominees.
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
A voting category for the rookie of the year who has had a successful year musically with the absence of an album in the year under review.
ZERRY DL
TAVES
KAESTYLE
LLONA
BEST RECORDING OF THE YEAR
A non-voting category for the best recording (that meets the judges’ requirements of excellence; songwriting, production, rendition) by an artiste or group in the year under review.
TEMS – BURNING
DIFFERENT PATTERN – SEYI VIBEZ*
HIGHER – BURNA BOY
LAST HEARTBREAK SONG – AYRA STARR & GIVEON
BILLIONS – SARZ FEATURING LOJAY
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
A non-voting category for the writer of a song (that meets the judges’ requirements of excellence, composition, arrangement, rendition) in the year under review.
SIMISOLA KOSOKO – STRANGER (SIMI)
CHIMAMANDA PEARL CHUKWUMA – VISION (QING MADI)
MICHAEL AJUMA ATTAH – CAN’T BREATHE (LLONA)
EMOSEH KHAMOFU – FAMILY MEETING (BLOODY CIVILIAN)
FUAYEFIKA MAXWELL – STAGES OF LIFE (WIZARD CHAN)
BEST R&B SINGLE
A category for the best r&b single in the year under review (by a single individual or group).
QING MADI – VISION
JOHNNY DRILLE – FOR YOU
SIMI – STRANGER
TEMS – BURNING
AYRA STARR – LAST HEARTBREAK SONG FT. GIVEON
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
An individual or collection of people responsible for producing the most acclaimed song or album in the year under review.
SARZ – HAPPINESS
LONDON – OZEBA
MAGICSTICK – BASQUIAT
REMA/PRODUCER X/CUBEATZ/DEATZ/KILMBERBOY – HEHEHE
DIBS – DIFFERENT PATTERN
BEST RAP SINGLE
A voting category for a single (released on-air and streaming platforms) recording of a rap song.
CAST FEAT ODUMODUBLVCK – SHALLIPOPPI
BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR FEAT BLOODY CIVILIAN & WALE – ODUMODUBLVCK HALLELUJAH – LADIPOE, ROZZZ & MORRELO
CANADA – MAGNITO
IJE NWOKE – JERIQ
BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (FEMALE)
A non-voting category for the single female artiste with most outstanding vocal performances on a single or album.
AYRA STARR – LAST HEARTBREAK SONG
NINIOLA – LEVEL
SIMI – STRANGER
LIYA – I’M DONE
TOMORROW – YEMI ALADE
BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (MALE)
A non-voting category for the single male artiste with the most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album.
LOJAY – BILLIONS
OMAH LAY – MOVING
ANENDLESSOCEAN – GRATITUDE
JOHNNY DRILLE – FOR YOU
TIMI DAKOLO – KE NA KE SO
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
A voting category for the best conceptualist, best directed and most exciting video in the year under review. This award goes to the video director.
CHARM – REMA (REMA X PERLIKS X FOLARIN OLUDARE)
METAVERSE – OLAMIDE (JYDE AJALA)
LIKE ICE SPICE – BLAQBONEZ (PERLIKS & EMEKA SHINE SHINE)
OJAPIANO – KCEE (MATTMAX)
EGWU – CHIKE & MOHBAD (DIRECTOR PINK)
SHOWA – KIZZ DANIEL (TG OMORI)
NA MONEY – DAVIDO FT. CAVEMEN, ANGELIQUE KIDJO (DAMMY TWITCH)
BEST COLLABORATION
A voting category for the best r&b, pop, hip-hop or Afrobeats collaborative track (including cameos).
EMOTIONS – TIWA SAVAGE FEAT. ASA
BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR ODUMODUBLVCK, BLOODY CIVILIAN, AND WALE CAST – SHALLIPOPI FT ODUMODUBLVCK
EGWU – CHIKE AND MOHBAD
OLE – QING MADI AND BNXN
TWE TWE REMIX – KIZZ DANIEL AND DAVIDO
IDK – WIZKID FT. ZLATAN
BEST STREET-HOP ARTISTE
A voting category for the artiste whose songs are inspired by the streets. Such song should captain lingua, which may also be originated by the artiste and popular on the street.
SEYI VIBEZ – “DIFFERENT PATTERNS”
AYO MAFF – DEALER (FT. FIREBOY DL)
SHALLIPOPI – CAST (FT. ODUMODUBLVCK)
ZHUS JDO – JOHNBULL
MOHBAD – ASK ABOUT ME
AFROBEATS SINGLE OF THE YEAR
A voting category for the best Afrobeats single in the year under review (by single individual or group).
BIG BIG THINGS – YOUNG JONN FT. KIZZ DANIEL AND SEYI VIBEZ
TWE TWE REMIX – KIZZ DANIEL
EGWU FEAT. MOHBAD – CHIKE
REMEMBER – ASAKE
OGECHI REMIX – HYCE, BOYPEE, AND BROWN JOEL FT. DAVIDO
BIG BALLER – FLAVOR
LYRICIST ON THE ROLL
A non-voting category for the rapper with the best lyrical depth and performance on a single song or album in the year under review
MOGADISHU – A-Q
CHOCOLATE CITY CYPHER – M.I ABAGA
CHOCOLATE CITY CYPHER – BLAQBONEZ
HALLELUJAH – LADIPOE
EFELEME – ALPHA OJINI
BEST INSPIRATIONAL SINGLE
A voting award category for the best inspirational single in the year under review (by an individual or group).
GRATITUDE – ANENDLESSOCEAN
WORTHY OF MY PRAISE – DUNSIN OYEKAN FT. LAWRENCE OYOR
GOOD GOD 2 – LIMOBLAZE FT. NAOMI RAINE
PARTICULARLY – GAISE BABA FT. TOPE ALABI
YOU DO THIS ONE – MERCY CHINWO
HEADIES’ VIEWERS’ CHOICE
A voting category to award the fans’ favorite artiste with the most digital tractions (downloads, views, streams) in the year under review.
BIG BIG THINGS FT. KIZZ DANIEL AND SEYI VIBEZ – YOUNG JONN
OGECHI REMIX FT. DAVIDO – HYCE, BOYPEE, AND BROWN JOEL
EGWU – CHIKE & MOHBAD
SHOWA – KIZZ DANIEL
DIFFERENT PATTERN – SEYI VIBEZ
OZEBA – REMA
LOVE ME JEJE – TEMS
CAST FT. ODUMODUBLVCK – SHALLIPOPI
DEALER FT. FIREBOY DML – AYO MAFF
BIG BALLER – FLAVOUR
BEST WEST AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for an individual African artiste or group (of Western African Descent) with the most outstanding achievement and impact across Africa in the year under review.
BLACK SHERIF (GHANA) – JANUARY 9TH
KING PROMISE (GHANA) – TERMINATOR
HIMRA (IVORY COAST) – COULIBALY & DIABATÉ
JOSEY (IVORY COAST) – VENEZ BOUGER
TOOFAN (TOGO) – TONE
BEST EAST AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for an individual African artiste or group (of Eastern African Descent) with the most outstanding achievement and impact across Africa in the year under review.
BIEN (KENYA) – WAHALA
DIAMOND PLATNUMZ (TANZANIA) – MAPOZ
JUMA JUX (TANZANIA) – ENJOY
BRUCE MELODIE (RWANDA) – WHEN SHE’S AROUND
AZAWI (UGANDA) – MASAVU
BEST NORTH AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for an individual African artiste or group (of Northern African Descent) with the most outstanding achievement and impact across Africa in the year under review.
MOHAMED RAMADAN (EGYPT) – ARABI
ELGRANDE TOTO (MOROCCO) – MAGHRIBI
SOOLKING (ALGERIA) – TIKI TAKA
BALTI (TUNISIA) – DIMA MECHI
ABU (EYGPT) – HOLLELA
BEST SOUTHERN AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for an individual African artiste or group (of Southern African Descent) with the most outstanding achievement and impact across Africa in the year under review.
TITOM (SOUTH AFRICA) -TSHWALA BAM
YUPPE (SOUTH AFRICA) – TSHWALA BAM
TYLA (SOUTH AFRICA) – WATER
KELLY KAY (MALAWI) – BANA PWANYA
PLUTONIO (MOZAMBIQUE) – ACORDAR
ZEE NXUMALO (SOUTH AFRICA) – THULA MABOTA
BEST CENTRAL AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for an individual African artiste or group (of Central African Descent) with the most outstanding achievement and impact across Africa in the year under review.
INNOSS’B (DRC) – SETE
GAZ MAWETE (DRC) – DENDISA
EMMA’A (GABON) – BISO MIBALE
EBOLOKO (GABON) – SATANANA
SINGUILA. (CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC) – SIN SAISON
KOCEE (CAMEROUN) – CREDIT ALERT
INTERNATIONAL ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for a non-African artiste or group with the most outstanding achievement and impact on Afrobeats
WALE – BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR (ODUMODUBLVCK)
SKEPTA – TONY MONTANA (FT. PORTABLE)
CHRIS BROWN – HMMM (FT. DAVIDO)
TRAVIS SCOTT – ACTIVE (ASAKE)
CHLOE BAILEY – VISION REMIX (QING MADI)
BEST RAP ALBUM
A non-voting category for the best album by a rap artiste or group in the year under review.
SIDEH KAI – ILLBLISS
EZIOKWU – ODUMODUBLVCK
ALAYE TOH SE GOGO VOL. 1 – REMINISCE
FAMILY TIME – ERIGGA
SHINY OBJECT SYNDROME – MODENINE
SOUNDTRACK OF THE YEAR
This is a non-voting category for a song written and composed originally for use in a motion picture or series.
ELEDUMARE – TELEDALESE (ANIKULAPO: RISE OF THE SPECTRE)
TRIBE CALLED JUDAH SOUNDTRACK – TCJ & ABBEY WONDER (A TRIBE CALLED JUDAH)
NEXT RATED
This category is a voting category for the most promising act (with a single, EP or Album) in the year under review.
QING MADI
SHALLIPOPI
ODUMODUBLVCK
AYO MAFF
NASBOI
AFROBEATS ALBUM OF THE YEAR
A voting category for the best Afrobeats single in the year under review (by single individual or group).
STUBBORN – VICTONY
WORK OF ART – ASAKE
THE YEAR I TURN 21 – AYRA STARR
HEIS – REMA
JIGGY FOREVER – YOUNG JONN
BEST PERFORMER (LIVE)
A non-voting category for the artist with the most outstanding live performance in front of an audience by singing, or playing a musical instrument. The live performance must have been recorded and officially released in video format – streaming, TV and physical media.
REMA – RAVAGE UPRISING: REMA LIVE FROM THE O2, LONDON
OMAH LAY – LIVE AT L’OLYMPIA PARIS
FLAVOUR – CELEBRATING YOU 2023
WIZARD CHAN – LIVE IN CONCERT PORT HARCOURT
BURNA BOY – AFRICAN GIANT LIVE FROM LONDON
FEMI KUTI & THE POSITIVE FORCE – NUITS DE FOURVIÈRE (ARTE CONCERT)
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
A special recognition to an individual(s) for excellence and outstanding impact to the entertainment industry.
KINGSLEY CHINWEIKE OKONKWO a.k.a KCEE
DIGITAL ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
A voting award category for an individual Nigerian artiste or group with the most outstanding achievement and impact digitally in the year under review.
AYRA STARR
REMA
SHALLIPOPI
TEMS
DAVIDO
KIZZ DANIEL
ASAKE
SONG OF THE YEAR
A voting category for the most popular song in the year under review.
SHOWA – KIZZ DANIEL
COMMAS – AYRA STARR
EGWU – CHIKE AND MOHBAD
LONELY AT THE TOP – ASAKE
OZEBA – REMA
BIG BALLER – FLAVOUR
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
A voting category for the best album (solo or group) in the year under review, that meets judges’ requirements of excellence (songwriting, production, rendition and impact).
BORN IN THE WILD – TEMS
HEIS – REMA
THE YEAR I TURNED 21 – AYRA STARR
STUBBORN – VICTONY
WORK OF ART – ASAKE
ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
This category is a voting category for the most critically and commercially adjudged artiste in the year under review
DAVIDO
AYRA STARR
ASAKE
REMA
TEMS
BURNA BOY
Don’t Miss It!
The 17th Headies Awards promises unforgettable performances, show-stopping moments, and a celebration of music that transcends borders. Fans, this is your moment—join the excitement, cast your votes, and cheer for your favorites as they take their rightful place on one of the most iconic stages in African music history.
To cast your vote, updates, and details, head over to TheHeadies.com. Get involved, because this year, the rhythm of Africa takes center stage like never before.
Rising rap femcee Dazy Lyn “The L.A baby” is making waves with her latest release, “Baby Face,” a head-nodding bop that blends smooth melodies with undeniable hip-hop energy. Delivering a unique fusion of rap and R&B, Dazy Lyn showcases her effortless flow and melodic finesse, bringing a fresh sound to the game.
On “Baby Face,” she spins a captivating love story, expressing deep admiration for a special someone while making it clear—she’s not here for games. With lyrics like “Don’t Deny Her Love,”Dazy Lyn lays it all on the line, effortlessly balancing confidence and vulnerability.
This track is more than just a love song—it’s a statement. With a hypnotic beat, smooth cadences, Dazy Lyn is proving she’s a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop scene. Stay tuned because she’s keeping her foot on our necks!!! Follow here on IG HERE
