African music stars shone brightly at the Trace Awards held in Kigali, Rwanda, with prominent wins for Davido and Rema at the glitzy ceremony.
Davido was a standout winner, securing two awards for Best Male and Best Collaboration alongside South Africa’s Musa Keys for their song “Unavailable.” Meanwhile, Rema celebrated victories in the Global African Artist and Song of the Year categories with the track “Calm Down.” Burna Boy’s “Love Damini” clinched the award for Best Album, and Vivian Chidid was recognized as Best Female.
The regional awards included:
- Best Artist – East Africa: Diamond Platnumz
- Best Rwandan Artist: Bruce Melodie
- Best Artist Africa – Francophone: Didi B
- Best Gospel Artist: KS Bloom
- Best Producer: Tam Sir
- Best Artist Africa – Lusophone: Lisandro Cuxi
- Lifetime Achievement: Nigeria’s 2Face
Rutshelle Guillance was honored as Best Artist – Caribbean, Goulam triumphed as Best Artist – Indian Ocean, and Dystinct secured the title of Best Artist – North Africa. Yemi Alade’s hit “Baddie” was awarded Best Video.
Additionally, music maker and entrepreneur Mr. Eazi received a special ChangeMarker award for his philanthropic contributions.
The international scene also saw accolades handed out:
- Best Artist – UK: British rapper Central Cee
- Best Artist – France & Belgium: Tayc
- Best Artist – Brazil: Ludmilla
- Best DJ: Michael Brun
The Trace Awards featured more than 50 artists from Africa and the African diaspora. Performers from various genres wowed the audience, making it a remarkable night celebrating African music.
The Trace Awards, which marked the 20th anniversary of Trace, served as a testament to the creativity, talent, and influence of African and Afro-inspired music and artists. It showcased a wide range of Afro-centric music genres, from Afrobeat and Dancehall to Hip Hop and Gospel.
The ceremony was broadcast live on October 21, 2023, on Trace TV channels, radio, and digital platforms, as well as global streaming platforms and national terrestrial TV and satellite channels. A 90-minute highlights show is set to air on Trace channels and partner TV stations and platforms starting October 28, 2023. The Trace Awards were presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell.
For a comprehensive list of winners, please refer to the official announcement.
