BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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The Headies Awards, one of the most prestigious accolades in African music, is set to make history once again as its 17th edition unfolds in Lagos, Nigeria, on April 5, 2025. Recognized as a platform that honors the finest in Afrobeats and beyond, this year’s ceremony promises a spectacle of talent, innovation, and groundbreaking achievements. With an extensive list of categories, the Headies continues to spotlight the best in music, from chart-topping mainstream acts to emerging stars carving their niche in the industry.
With categories spanning diverse genres and artistic contributions, the competition is fierce. The “Best Recording of the Year” category features musical masterpieces such as Tems’ evocative “Burning” and Burna Boy’s soul-stirring “Higher.” Other nominees, including Seyi Vibez, Sarz & Lojay, and Ayra Starr & Giveon, have each crafted records that resonate deeply with audiences.
The “Producer of the Year” category is another highly contested field, with heavyweights like Sarz (“Happiness“), London (“Ozeba“), and Magicsticks (“Basquiat”) competing for the coveted title. Their contributions have defined the sonic landscape of African music, delivering hits that transcend borders.
The art of songwriting takes center stage in the “Songwriter of the Year” category, where lyrical prowess is honored. Names like Simisola Kosoko (“Stranger”) and Emoseh Khamofu (“Family Meeting“) stand out among a stellar lineup of lyricists whose words have captured emotions and experiences with remarkable depth.
The “Best Vocal Performance (Female)” category showcases powerhouses such as Ayra Starr (“Last Heartbreak Song“), Simi (“Stranger“), and Niniola (“Level“), while the “Best Vocal Performance (Male)” highlights vocal finesse from artists like Oxlade and Ric Hassani.
Meanwhile, visual storytelling is at its peak in the “Music Video of the Year” category, where nominations include Rema’s “Charm,” Olamide’s “Metaverse,” and Davido’s vibrant “Na Money,” among others. These directors and artists have pushed creative boundaries, crafting visuals that enhance and amplify the music.
The hip-hop scene remains a force to be reckoned with in the “Best Rap Single” category, where Odumodublvck’s “Cast” featuring Shallipopi and Magnito’s “Canada” are among the top contenders. Additionally, the “Best Rap Album” category features lyrical excellence from the likes of Reminisce (“Alaye Toh Se Gogo Vol. 1“) and Phyno (“Full Time Job“).
Collaboration remains a driving force in Afrobeats, as seen in the “Best Collaboration” category, which boasts power-packed duets like Tiwa Savage and Asa’s “Emotions” and Odumodublvck, Bloody Civilian & Wale’s “Blood on the Dance Floor.” On the streets, Seyi Vibez, Shallipopi, and Mohbad lead the “Best Street-Hop Artiste” category, celebrating the raw, unfiltered energy of street anthems.
The Headies’ commitment to recognizing African talent beyond Nigeria is evident in its continental categories. The “Best West African Artiste” category sees Ghanaian superstar Black Sherif go head-to-head with King Promise and Ivory Coast’s Josey. Meanwhile, the “Best East African Artiste” features Diamond Platnumz, Bien, and Juma Jux, showcasing the region’s rich musical diversity.
Southern and Central African artists are not left out, with acts like Tyla and Innoss’B representing their respective regions in “Best Southern African Artiste” and “Best Central African Artiste” categories. These categories reinforce the Headies’ mission of celebrating the pan-African music movement and its global influence.
The “Rookie of the Year” and “Headies Next Rated” categories serve as launching pads for emerging artists poised to take over the industry. Qing Madi, Shallipopi, Odumodublvck, and Ayo Maff are among the names to watch, as they continue to amass loyal fanbases and industry recognition.
As the countdown to the 17th Headies Awards intensifies, anticipation builds around who will walk away with the night’s biggest honors. From the pulsating beats of Afrobeats to the poetic lyricism of rap, from the grand visuals of music videos to the street-hop anthems ruling the airwaves, this year’s edition promises to be nothing short of spectacular. With a lineup of Africa’s biggest and brightest stars, the Headies continue to cement their legacy as the ultimate celebration of musical excellence on the continent.
Below is the full list for all nominated artists and their categories;
Best Inspirational Single
Viewers’ Choice Award
Best West African Artiste of the Year
Best East African Artiste of the Year
Best North African Artiste of the Year
Best Southern African Artiste of the Year
Best Central African Artiste of the Year
Best Rap Album
Headies Next Rated
