In a resounding display of musical talent and creativity, the stage is set for the inaugural Trace Awards. Renowned Afrobeats luminaries, including Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage, emerged as notable contenders among the nominees.
This prestigious event, hosted by music media company Trace, will take centre stage at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda, on October 21, 2023. With a global television broadcast anticipated to reach a staggering 500 million viewers across 190 countries, the awards are poised to spotlight the extraordinary influence and artistry of African and Afro-inspired music and culture.
A Spectrum of Nominees
The nominee list for the Trace Awards showcases a rich array of talents, from artists and music producers to DJs, composers, directors, and record labels.
West African musicians, particularly those from Nigeria, have taken centre stage with more than 40 nominations, establishing their dominance in the Afrobeats landscape.
Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Davido, WizKid, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade, Fireboy DML, and Rema lead the charge with multiple nominations across diverse categories.
Excellence Across Categories
Davido and Burna Boy have been nominated in four categories each, encompassing “Best Male,” “Song of the Year,” “Best Live,” “Best Collaboration,” “Best Artist,” and “Album of the Year.”
Their musical prowess sets a formidable benchmark for their peers. Equally impressive is the surge of recognition for artists like Asake, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Yemi Alade, and Fireboy DML, each securing three nominations.
The nomination spectrum extends further to artists like Rema and Kizz Daniel, who garnered two nods.
A Visionary Endeavor
Trace chairman and co-founder, Olivier Laouchez, lauded the significance of the nominations, remarking that they applaud the achievements and excellence of performers, producers, writers, composers, and directors.
He extended congratulations to the nominees, acknowledging the vital role they play in celebrating African and Afro-inspired music. This sentiment resonated with Laouchez’s emphasis on the nominees’ collective role in shaping the musical landscape.
Anticipating the Future
As the stage is set for the 2023 Trace Awards, the countdown begins to an event that promises to honour innovation, talent, and the spirit of creativity.
With platinum-selling artists from over 30 countries vying for recognition, the event is poised to unite a diverse musical tapestry that spans continents.
The intricate fusion of sounds, cultures, and languages showcases the dynamism of the African music scene.
As the night of celebration approaches, the eyes of the world are fixed on Kigali, eager to witness a spectacle that will undoubtedly etch its place in the annals of music history.
