The 2025 edition of the Trace Awards took place in Zanzibar on February 26, honoring outstanding African artists, producers, and performers. The event showcased the continent’s growing global influence, with Afrobeats, amapiano, and various African music genres taking center stage.
Key Winners
- Song of the Year: Titom & Yuppe for “Tshwala Bam” (South Africa)
- Album of the Year: Rema for “Heis” (Nigeria)
- Best Male Artist: Rema (Nigeria)
- Best Female Artist: Tyla (South Africa)
- Best Collaboration: Tamsir & Team Paiya for “Coup du Marteau” (Ivory Coast)
- Best Music Video: Meji Alabi for Rema’s “DND” (Nigeria)
- Best Dancer: Makhadzi (South Africa)
- Best DJ: DJ MOH Green – Kelele (Algeria)
- Best Hip Hop Artist: Didi B (Ivory Coast)
- Best Global African Artist: Diamond Platinumz (Tanzania)
- Best Live Performance: Fally Ipupa (DRC)
- Best Producer: P.Prime – MMS (Nigeria)
- Best Gospel Artist: Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
Regional Awards
- Best Artist (Eastern Africa): Bien (Kenya)
- Best Artist (Western Africa): Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
- Best Artist (Southern Africa): Tyler ICU (South Africa)
- Best Artist (Francophone Africa): Josey (Ivory Coast)
- Best Artist (Lusophone Africa): Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
- Best Artist (Tanzania): Jux (Tanzania)
International and Diaspora Awards
- Best Artist (Europe): Joe Dwet File (France/Haiti)
- Best Artist (Brazil): Duquesa (Brazil)
- Best Artist (Caribbean): Lea Churro (Reunion Island)
- Best Artist (Indian Ocean): Barth (Reunion)
The Trace Awards 2025 was a night to remember, celebrating African music’s rich diversity and global appeal. Congratulations to all the winners!
