The Nigerian music industry is glowing with pride as six of its biggest artists—Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Tems, Yemi Alade, and Asake—secure prestigious nominations for the 67th annual Grammy Awards. These global icons are competing in key categories, a testament to their remarkable influence and the unstoppable rise of Afrobeats on the world stage.
The grand ceremony is slated for February 2, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, where these artists will showcase Nigeria’s vibrant sound and culture. With songs like Tems’s “Born in the Wild” and “Love Me Jeje,” Yemi Alade’s “Tomorrow,” Davido’s feature on Chris Brown’s “Sensational,” Rema’s “HEIS,” Asake’s “MMS,” and Burna Boy’s “Higher,” the Grammys promise to be a landmark moment for African music.
Tems: The Queen of the Grammys
Tems has cemented her position as a Grammy heavyweight with three nominations, a follow-up to her win for collaborating on Future’s “Wait for U.” Her debut album Born in the Wild has earned her nods for Best Global Music Album and Best R&B Song for “Burning.” In addition, her hit “Love Me Jeje” competes for Best African Music Performance. Released on June 7, 2024, the 18-track album showcases Tems’s soulful artistry, with highlights including “Me & U” and “Love Me Jeje.” Critics predict that Tems will likely bring home at least one Grammy, solidifying her as a force in global music.
Yemi Alade: Afro-Pop Royalty
Yemi Alade, popularly known as “Mama Africa,” continues to shine with her nomination for Best African Music Performance for “Tomorrow.” Taken from her sixth studio album Rebel Queen and released on May 17, 2024, the track delivers a rich fusion of traditional African sounds and messages of hope. Produced by DeeYassobeatz, “Tomorrow” carries uplifting lyrics that encourage resilience and positivity, perfectly embodying Yemi Alade’s artistry. While the competition in her category is fierce, Alade’s authenticity and cultural depth give her a fighting chance.
Davido: Global Collaborator
Davido’s Grammy nomination comes via Chris Brown’s track “Sensational,” which features him and rising star Lojay. The song, released in 2023, blends Chris Brown’s signature R&B style with Afrobeat elements. Davido’s contribution adds a unique flavor, making the track a favorite for the Best African Music Performance award. Known for creating infectious hits, Chris Brown teamed up with Davido and Lojay to deliver a song that resonates globally, potentially earning Davido his first Grammy.
Asake: Mr. Money Takes the World Stage
Asake’s nomination for “MMS,” featuring Wizkid, places him in the Best African Music Performance category. The track, released in June 2024, reflects Asake’s innovative style, combining traditional Afrobeat rhythms with modern production. Though “MMS” hasn’t achieved the massive success of his previous hits, its Grammy recognition elevates Asake’s status as a rising global star.
Rema: Prince of Afrobeats
Rema’s sophomore album HEIS has earned him a nomination for Best Global Music Album. Released in July 2024, the 11-track project captures Rema’s evolution as an artist navigating global stardom. Building on the success of his debut album Rave & Roses and the international smash remix of “Calm Down” with Selena Gomez, HEIS positions Rema as a frontrunner in the Afrobeats movement. Winning this award would mark a defining moment in his career.
Burna Boy: The African Giant Strikes Again
Burna Boy, no stranger to Grammy glory, returns with his song “Higher,” nominated for Best African Music Performance. Released on June 27, 2024, the track blends Burna’s lyrical depth, unique sound, and electrifying energy. Produced by Dibs, “Higher” is a powerful anthem that showcases Burna Boy’s ability to transcend musical boundaries. Known for his dynamic performances, Burna’s latest nomination reinforces his reputation as a global trailblazer.
The Grammy Spotlight on Nigerian Music
With these six powerhouse artists representing Nigeria, the 67th Grammy Awards are set to be a historic celebration of African music. Each nominee brings a unique flavor, blending cultural authenticity with innovative sounds that captivate global audiences.
As the world watches, one thing is certain: Nigerian music is not just on the rise—it’s redefining the global music landscape.
