BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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The Billboard Women in Music Awards has long stood as a beacon of recognition for female artists shaping the music industry. Established in 2007, the event was created to highlight the achievements of women making significant contributions in various capacities–whether as performers, songwriters, producers, or industry executives. Over the years, it has become one of the most prestigious platforms celebrating the power, resilience, and artistry of women in music.
On March 29, 2025, the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, was abuzz with excitement as the latest edition of the Billboard Women in Music Awards unfolded. This year’s ceremony proved to be an unforgettable night, filled with powerful speeches, breathtaking performances, and heartfelt moments that underscored the event’s legacy of honoring the voices shaping contemporary music.
Before the main event began, the red carpet was the stage for a dazzling display of style and self-expression. From bold, avant-garde ensembles to elegant couture, the night was a testament to the fact that music and fashion remain deeply intertwined.
Jennie of BLACKPINK, recipient of the Global Force Award, stunned in an ethereal red dress that spoke of classic elegance. Doechii, crowned Woman of the Year, radiated confidence in a bold, statement-making black dress that perfectly encapsulated her fearless approach to artistry. Erykah Badu, ever the icon, appeared in an avant-garde outfit featuring a textured, sculptural bodysuit with exaggerated hips and a knitted hood, blending surrealism with bold fashion artistry whilst challenging the BBL culture. Meanwhile, Tyla, the evening’s Impact Award honoree, turned heads in a daring black ensemble featuring a sheer, intricately woven netted gown with long sleeves, a high slit, and a flowing train, layered over black undergarments for a bold yet ethereal look.
The evening was punctuated by an array of spellbinding performances that kept the audience captivated. Doechii, embracing her status as Woman of the Year, delivered a high-energy set that reaffirmed her place as one of the industry’s most innovative artists. Jennie, who has solidified herself as a global phenomenon, graced the stage with a truly magnetic performance.
Other honorees, including GloRilla and Megan Moroney, brought dynamic energy to the stage, showcasing the very essence of their artistry. The night also featured a soulful and deeply personal performance by Erykah Badu, who used her Icon Award acceptance as an opportunity to reflect on her journey and the importance of authentic storytelling in music.
One of the most talked-about performances of the night came from Tyla, who delivered a mesmerizing performance that encapsulated the essence of her Afro-fusion sound. As the only South-African honoree at the event, she carried the weight of representation on her shoulders and did so with effortless grace. The crowd’s reaction was electric, a testament to the universal appeal of her music and the growing influence of African artists on the global stage.
This year’s honorees reflected a diverse range of talents, each making waves in their respective fields:
Each award was a testament to these women’s incredible journeys, their triumphs, and their impact on the music industry.
As the recipient of the Impact Award, Tyla took the stage to deliver one of the evening’s most memorable speeches. She spoke with raw honesty about her rapid rise to fame and the weight of carrying African representation on a global scale. “I left my country with big dreams, and I thought I had more time to figure things out… But when my career took off, I realized that God has His own plans,” she shared, a statement that resonated deeply with fans and industry professionals alike.
She went on to highlight the importance of artistic influence: “You never know how something you say or do–a lyric, a performance–might ignite in someone else, and what they, in turn, will pass forward to another person.” Tyla concluded by expressing deep gratitude to her fans–whom she affectionately calls her “Tygers”–as well as to her mother, her team, and her label for their unwavering support.
Her words were a reminder of the significance of visibility and the doors that events like the Billboard Women in Music Awards continue to open for women of all backgrounds.
The 2025 Billboard Women in Music Awards was more than just a celebration–it was a statement. It reinforced the power of female artistry, the necessity of inclusivity, and the limitless potential of women in the music industry. From dazzling performances to heartfelt speeches, every moment of the night underscored the strength and resilience of women who continue to redefine the industry.
As the curtains closed on another unforgettable edition of the event, one thing was clear: the impact of these women will resonate far beyond this night. Their music, their voices, and their stories will continue to inspire generations to come. And in a world where the fight for recognition and representation is ongoing, this night served as a powerful reminder that women in music are here to stay, shaping the industry with their talent, their vision, and their undeniable power.
