The milestone also means all of Asake’s released projects have now surpassed 50 million streams on Spotify. His catalogue includes Ololade Asake, Mr. Money With The Vibe, Work of Art, Lungu Boy, M$NEY, and M$NEY Live In London.
Asake’s studio albums have recorded particularly strong numbers on the platform. Mr. Money With The Vibe is nearing the billion-stream mark, while Work of Art has crossed 900 million streams. Lungu Boy has surpassed 560 million, and M$NEY has crossed 490 million streams.
The latest milestone further reinforces Asake’s position as one of the most consistent streaming artists to emerge from Nigeria’s current Afrobeats generation, with every major project in his catalogue now recording at least 50 million Spotify streams.
Muyeez and Seyi Vibez’s hit collaboration, “Instagram,” has officially been certified 5× Platinum in Nigeria, marking another major milestone for the young singer.
TurnTable Charts announced the certification on October 2, 2026, revealing that the single has surpassed 500,000 units under the TurnTable Certification System of Nigeria (TCSN).
Released on April 30, 2024, “Instagram” served as the mainstream introduction of Muyeez, born Moshood Abdulmuiz, and featured a standout contribution from Seyi Vibez. The Afrobeats and street-pop record quickly gained traction following its release, reaching No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria within 24 hours before later topping the official Nigeria singles chart.
At the time of its release, Muyeez was around 16 years old and was associated with Seyi Vibez’s Vibez Inc./NSNV Inc. camp. The song’s themes around love, social media and youthful experiences helped it connect strongly with younger listeners and establish Muyeez as one of the notable young voices emerging from Nigeria’s music scene.
MUYEEZ & SEYI VIBEZ’S “INSTAGRAM” IS NOW 5X PLATINUM-CERTIFIED IN NIGERIA 🇳🇬💿
Under the TCSN certification system, a Platinum certification for a single represents 100,000 units, with each additional Platinum level representing another 100,000 units.
As a result, 5× Platinum represents 500,000 units in Nigeria. TCSN’s methodology primarily considers on demand streaming and digital downloads, with different weights applied to paid and ad-supported streams.
“Instagram” had already accumulated multiple certifications before reaching the latest milestone, reflecting its sustained performance since its release.
The certification adds to Muyeez’s growing list of achievements. His catalog has also earned certifications for records including “Free,” “Mortal Kombat” and “247,” alongside recognition for his self-titled EP.
For Seyi Vibez, “Instagram” adds another multi-Platinum record to an already highly certified catalog.
The 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) have officially concluded, bringing together some of the biggest names in African music, entertainment and culture for a night celebrating the continent’s creative excellence.
The awards returned in 2026 after a two-year break, with this year’s ceremony taking place on September 12 at Annette Strauss Square in Dallas, Texas, as part of the expanded AFRIMMA MusicFest.
The 2026 edition saw artists from across Africa and the diaspora compete across regional, musical and cultural categories, with 41 honors ultimately presented.
DR Congo’s Fally Ipupa emerged as one of the biggest winners of the night, taking home Artist of the Year and the Crossing Boundaries with Music Award. Nigeria’s Davido won Album of the Year for 5ive, while BNXN and Sarz took home both Song of the Year and, alongside Diamond Platnumz and Juma Jux, competed among the year’s biggest collaborations.
Other notable winners included Tems, Ruger, Tyla, Marioo, Nikita Kering, Fola, Phyno, Mercy Chinwo, Eno Barony, DJ Tunez, London, Patoranking, Shenseea, Dope Nation, Victor Osimhen, Victony and Didi B.
Full AFRIMMA 2026 Winners List
Regional Awards
Best Male West Africa Nominees: Davido, Black Sherif, BNXN, Rema, Asake, Didi B, Djodje, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Ruger, Dino Santiago Winner: Ruger
Best Female West Africa Nominees: Hadzi Vodushi, Tems, Josey, Viviane Chidid, Ayra Starr, Moliy, Tiwa Savage, Mariam Ba Lagare, Teni, Soraia Ramos Winner: Tems
Best Male East Africa Nominees: Lij Michael, Marioo, Eddy Kenzo, Diamond Platnumz, Juma Jux, Bien, Mbosso, Joshua Baraka, Single Dee, Barnaba Winner: Marioo
Best Female East Africa Nominees: Abigail Chams, Veronica Adane, Bridget Blue, Zuchu, Nikita Kering, Ariel Wayz, Njerae, Winnie Nwagi, Salemia Winner: Nikita Kering
Best Male Central Africa Nominees: Matias Damásio, Dadju, TayC, Fally Ipupa, Calema, Gims, Gerilson Israel, Ko-C Winner: Gerilson Israel
Best Female Central Africa Nominees: Anna Joyce, Rebo, Krys M, Blanche Bailly, Cindy Le Coeur, Espoir La Tigresse, Jessy B, Emma’a Winner: Emma’a
Best Male Southern Africa Nominees: Scott Maphuma, Nutty O, Yo Maps, DJ Maphorisa, Zeze Kingston, Cassper Nyovest, William Last KRM, Kabza De Small Winner: DJ Maphorisa
Best Female Southern Africa Nominees: Mawhoo, Tamy Moyo, Charma Gal, Babalwa M, Hanna, Uncle Waffles, Bombshell Grenade, Makhadzi, Tyla Winner: Tyla
Best Male North Africa Nominees: Wegz, Stormy, Adviser, Amr Diab, Marwan Moussa, ElGrandeToto, DJ Snake, Cheb Momo Winner: DJ Snake
Best Female North Africa Nominees: Marwa Loud, Chirine Lajmi, Manal, Souhila Ben Lachhab, Sherine, Latifa, Kenza Morsli, Zina Daoudia Winner: Latifa
Artist of the Year Nominees: Asake, Fally Ipupa, Diamond Platnumz, Burna Boy, Rema, Tyla, Tems, Davido, Bien Winner: Fally Ipupa
Best Gospel Nominees: Mercy Chinwo, Prosper Germoh, Christina Shusho, Miguel Buila, Bidemi Olaoba, Deborah Lukalu, Joel Lwaga, Moïse Mbiye, Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye Winner: Mercy Chinwo
Best Female Rap Act Nominees: Rosa Ree, Eno Barony, Bombshell Grenade, Freda Rhymz, Moozlie, Ssaru, Ami Yerewolo, Candy Bleakz Winner: Eno Barony
Best Male Rap Act Nominees: Odumodublvck, Jeriq, Ninho, Black Sherif, A-Reece, 6uff, Blxckie, Yung Lunya, Phyno, Himra Winner: Phyno
Best Collaboration Nominees: Bien & Alikiba — “Finale”; BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”; Davido & Omah Lay — “With You”; Diamond Platnumz ft. Juma Jux — “Joy”; Patoranking ft. Ruger — “Shake That”; Fally Ipupa ft. Wizkid — “Jam”; Jazzworx & Tukuthela — “Bengicela”; Flavour ft. Baaba Maal — “Afroculture”; Marvais Djo ft. Kano Choir — “Pile” Winner: Diamond Platnumz & Juma Jux — “Joy”
Song of the Year Nominees: Davido ft. Omah Lay — “With You”; BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”; Bien & Alikiba — “Finale”; Diamond Platnumz ft. Juma Jux — “Joy”; Moliy ft. Shenseea & Skillibeng — “Shake It to the Max”; Black Sherif — “So It Goes”; Ciza — “Isaka (6AM)”; Young Jonn — “Elumelu”; DopeNation — “Kakalika”; Marvais Djo ft. Kano Choir — “Pile”; DJ Kedjevara — “Ça Fait Mal” Winner: BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”
Best Video Director Nominees: Hanscana, Director Pink, Elias Belkader, Mateo Da Silva, TG Omori, Babs Direction, Jake Zaral, Dammy Twitch Winner: Pink
Best DJ Africa Nominees: DJ Spinall, DJ Dollar, Uncle Waffles, DJ Obi, DJ Tunez, DJ Sly King, DJ Commissioner Wysei, DJ Nelasta, Major League DJs, DJ Kaywise, DJ Dope Caesar, DJ Moh Winner: DJ Tunez
Best African DJ USA Nominees: DJ Kuncept, DJ Akua, DJ Prince, DJ Bode, DJ Chelsea, DJ Shinski, DJ Birame BB L’amour, DJ Oreo, Lex and Answer, DJ Nani Winner: DJ Prince
Music Producer of the Year Nominees: Masterkraft, Andre Vibez, 207, Dlala Thukzin, Magicsticks, MOG Beatz, Xduppy, London Winner: London
Best African Dancer Nominees: Masaka Dance Kids, Incredible Zigi, Poco Lee, Ghetto Kids, Angel Nyigu, Hope Ramafalo, Wet Bad Gang, Dancegod Lloyd, Hooliboy Winner: Ghetto Kids
Best Male Reggae/Dancehall Nominees: Valiant, Mr. Killa, Patoranking, Shatta Wale, Skillibeng, Vybz Kartel, Popcaan, Kranium Winner: Patoranking
Best Female Reggae/Dancehall Nominees: Shenseea, Jada Kingdom, Moliy, Spice, Koffee, Lila Iké, Shaneil Muir, Vanessa Bling Winner: Shenseea
Best African Group Nominees: Disco Misr, Calema, Show Dem Camp, Toofan, DopeNation, Team Paiya, Mi Casa, Bracket Winner: Dope Nation
Album of the Year Nominees: Black Sherif — Top of The Morning Era; Omah Lay — Clarity of Mind; Asake — M$NEY; Tyla — A-Pop; Burna Boy — No Sign of Weakness; Lloyiso — Never Thought I Could; Davido — 5ive; Leigh-Anne — My Ego Told Me To; Himra — SORRY I’M BAD Winner: Davido — 5ive
Best African USA-Based Artist Nominees: Kwate, Bills, Mannywellz, Moses Sumney, Libianca, Palmwine Tappers Band, Detty K, J Pako, Emma Nyra Winner: Kwate
AFRIMMA Music Without Borders Award Winner: Juma Jux
AFRIMMA Timeless Impact Award Nominees: Timaya, Amr Diab, Sarkodie, Nameless, Oskido, Kcee, Slap Dee, Bebe Cool, Flavour, Mafikizolo Winner: Timaya
Culture & Impact Awards
African Athlete of the Year Nominees: Victor Osimhen, Serhou Guirassy, Ademola Lookman, Achraf Hakimi, Pascal Siakam, Faith Kipyegon, Nnamdi Madubuike Winner: Victor Osimhen
Best Influencer Nominees: Peller, Carter Efe, Khaby Lame, Nasty Blaq, Lasizwe Dambuza, Ilyas El Maliki, Crazy Kennar, Sabinus Winner: Nasty Blaq
Best Actor/Actress Nominees: Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Ademoye, Uche Montana, Elizabeth Michael “Lulu”, Zander Adika, Pallance Dladla, Masali Baduza Winner: Uche Montana
Best Comedian Nominees: Basketmouth, Bovi, Warri Pikin, Eric Omondi, Trevor Noah, Godfrey, Patrick “Salvado” Idringi, Ty Ngachira Winner: Warri Pikin
Best Hypeman/MC Nominees: Big Smart, Shody, Ogee The MC, MC Wild, Robot Boii, Balaa MC, MC Mignon, Do2dtun Winner: Big Smart
Community Impact Award Nominees: Ester Mathew Tonlagha Foundation, Noella Foundation, FAWE, Educate!, IkamvaYouth, Street Child, Tony Elumelu Foundation Winner: Esther Mathew Tonlagha
The remaining special recognition categories were also revealed as part of AFRIMMA’s expanded 2026 honors.
Best Francophone – Innoss’B Best Lusophone – Gerilson Israel AFRIMMA Fans Choice Award – Victony AFRIMMA Rising Star – Florito Francophone Viewers Choice Award – Didi B
The nominations for the 18th Headies Awards have officially been unveiled, setting the stage for another major celebration of Nigerian and African music.
The 2026 edition brings together some of the biggest names in Afrobeats alongside a new generation of artists making significant waves across the continent. Davido, Wizkid and Burna Boy headline the major categories, while artists including FOLA, Ayra Starr, Mavo, Omah Lay, Tems, Asake, Rema and Tiwa Savage also feature prominently.
The 18th Headies is taking the awards to Toronto, Canada, under the theme “Africa to the World”, reflecting the continued global expansion of African music. The ceremony is scheduled for October 23, 2026, with several Headies Week events planned around the main ceremony.
Three of Afrobeats’ biggest stars remain at the centre of the Headies conversation.
Davido earns nominations across several major categories, including Afrobeats Album of the Year for 5ive, Best Male Artiste, Song of the Year, Afrobeats Single of the Year, Best Recording of the Year, Best Headies Collaboration and Headies Viewers’ Choice.
His collaboration with Omah Lay, “With You,” is particularly dominant, earning nominations for Song of the Year, Afrobeats Single of the Year, Best Recording, Best Headies Collaboration and Viewers’ Choice.
Wizkid is also strongly represented. Morayo competes for Afrobeats Album of the Year, while the singer is nominated for Best Male Artiste, Digital Artiste of the Year and Viewers’ Choice. His collaborations with Asake, “MMS” and “Jogodo,” also feature in major categories.
For Burna Boy, No Sign of Weakness earns an Afrobeats Album of the Year nomination, while “Bundle By Bundle” competes for Afrobeats Single of the Year and its music video is nominated for Music Video of the Year. He is also in contention for Best Male Artiste.
One of the biggest stories from this year’s nominations is the presence of FOLA across multiple major categories.
The singer’s catharsis is nominated for Best R&B Album, while “you” earns nominations for Afrobeats Single of the Year and Best Recording of the Year.
FOLA is also nominated for Digital Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste, Best Headies Collaboration for “Lost” with Kizz Daniel, Writer of the Year and Next Rated.
His strong showing makes him one of the most prominent emerging acts at the 18th Headies.
Next Rated Race Features Fido, FOLA, Llona, Mavo and Shoday
The highly anticipated Next Rated category features five of the year’s most talked-about rising acts:
The category is one of the most closely watched every year because it often signals the next major stars of Nigerian music. The winner of the 18th edition’s Next Rated award is also set to receive a brand-new car courtesy of Cream Platform.
Album of the Year Race
The Album of the Year category features a strong mixture of established stars and critically recognised projects:
FOLA — catharsis
Omah Lay — Clarity of Mind
Erigga — G.O.A.T
Wizkid — Morayo
ODUMODUBLVCK — The Machine Is Coming
Tiwa Savage — This One Is Personal
Burna Boy — No Sign of Weakness
It is one of the night’s most competitive categories, bringing together projects that have generated substantial conversation across Afrobeats, rap, R&B and alternative music.
Afrobeats Album of the Year
The genre’s biggest album category features:
Davido — 5ive
BNXN — Captain
Omah Lay — Clarity of Mind
Adekunle Gold — Fuji
Wizkid — Morayo
Burna Boy — No Sign of Weakness
With Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy and Omah Lay all represented, this category could become one of the night’s biggest talking points.
Song of the Year
The nominees for Song of the Year are:
Kunmie — “Arike”
Poco Lee, Shoday & Rahman Jago — “Hey Jago”
Ayra Starr — “Hot Body”
Fido — “Joy Is Coming”
Asake & Wizkid — “MMS”
Davido & Omah Lay — “With You”
The category captures some of the year’s biggest records, from Ayra Starr’s “Hot Body” to the massive “With You” and the Asake-Wizkid collaboration “MMS.”
Ayra Starr, Tems and Tiwa Savage Lead the Female Category
The Best Female Artiste category features:
Ayra Starr
Qing Madi
Sewa
Tems
Teni
Tiwa Savage
Ayra Starr also earns nominations for Song of the Year, Digital Artiste of the Year, Best Performer (Live) and Viewers’ Choice, among others.
Tems is nominated for Best R&B Album with Love Is a Kingdom, while Tiwa Savage’s This One Is Personal also competes in the same category.
Best Male Artiste
The male category brings together:
Adekunle Gold
Asake
FOLA
Mavo
Rema
Wizkid
Burna Boy
It is another category where established superstars face some of the fastest-rising names in the Nigerian music scene.
Digital Artiste of the Year
The Digital Artiste of the Year category features:
Asake
Ayra Starr
BNXN
Chella
FOLA
Mavo
Seyi Vibez
Wizkid
The award is particularly significant in an era where streaming, social media, viral records and digital fan engagement increasingly shape an artist’s reach. The Headies identifies Digital Artiste, Next Rated and Viewers’ Choice among its public-voting categories.
Producer of the Year
The battle behind the music will see five major producers compete for Producer of the Year:
Magicsticks
P.Priime
Ragee
SARZ
Tempoe
Their nominated works include some of the year’s biggest records, with Magicsticks linked to Asake and Wizkid’s “Jogodo,” P.Priime to “MMS” and Rema’s “Baby (Is It a Crime),” Ragee and SARZ to Ayra Starr’s “Hot Body,” and Tempoe to Davido and Omah Lay’s “With You.”
Best Collaboration
The nominees for Best Headies Collaboration include:
CKay ft Mavo — “Body (Danz)”
Mavo ft WAVE$TAR — “Escaladizzy”
Poco Lee, Shoday & Rahman Jago — “Hey Jago”
FOLA ft Kizz Daniel — “Lost”
ODUMODUBLVCK ft Victony — “Pity This Boy”
Davido ft Omah Lay — “With You”
Mr Eazi & King Promise — “See What We’ve Done”
Chief Priest ft Spyki — “Finally”
Best Vocal Performance
The male nominees are Adekunle Gold, Flavour, Magixx, Odeal, Syemca and Tay Iwar, while the female category features LayeFa, Amaeya, Sewa, Qing Madi, Liya and Tiwa Savage.
THE 18TH HEADIES AWARDS — BEST PERFORMER NOMINEES
Adekunle Gold — Live at the National Theatre Lagos with MUSON Orchestra Asake — Red Bull Symphonic Ayra Starr — Global Citizen Festival NYC 2025 Johnny Drille — Johnny’s Room Live 6 Ruger — Live @ Indigo at the O2, London (2025) pic.twitter.com/U77XSA7AkS
The 18th Headies also continues to spotlight Nigeria’s diverse sounds.
Best Rap Album features Tuff King, AQ, Erigga, Jeriq, Blaqbonez and ODUMODUBLVCK.
Best Street-Hop Artiste includes Famous Pluto, Kashcoming, Poco Lee, Seyi Vibez, Shallipopi, Tuff King and Rybeena.
Meanwhile, Best Alternative Album features SDC’s Afrika Magik, Sewa’s Detox, BOJ’s Duplicity, Wizard Chan’s Healers Chapel, Scottyolorin’s Olorin Pack and Zaylevelten’s Then 1t Got Crazy.
International and African Categories Expand the Field
The 18th Headies continues its international outlook with nominees from across Africa and the diaspora.
International Artiste of the Year features Ciara, Dave, Gunna, Jazmine Sullivan, Shenseea and Tiakola.
The Best West African Artiste category includes Black Sherif, Himra, KiDi, King Promise, Moliy, Wally B. Seck and Stonebwoy.
Other regional categories recognise artists from East Africa, North Africa and Central Africa, while the new African Diaspora-Canadian Artiste category features Debby Friday, Tôme, Bolu Ajibade, Nonso Amadi, Rooky Kamiz and Tobi.
More Major Categories
Other categories announced include:
Best Performer (Live): Adekunle Gold, Asake, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille and Ruger.
Best Recording of the Year: Kunmie — “Arike”; Amaeya — “How Do You?”; Rema — “Baby (Is It a Crime)”; Omah Lay & Elmah — “Coping Mechanism”; Davido & Omah Lay — “With You”; FOLA — “you.”
Music Video of the Year: Director Pink’s “10 Kilo” by Davido, Dammy Twitch’s “With You,” TG Omori’s “Afroculture,” Jyde Ajala’s “Kai,” DK’s “Bundle By Bundle” and Meji Alabi’s “Who’s Dat Girl.”
Lyricist on the Roll: Blaqbonez, Dremo, Modenine, PDSTRN and YCEE.
Songwriter of the Year: Adekunle Gold, Victony, Wizard Chan, FOLA, Kunmie and Amaeya.
Best Original Song for Visual Media: “All My Love,” “Behind the Scenes,” “Save Me” and “Only in Lagos.”
The 18th Headies will be preceded by a series of events throughout Headies Week, including a talent showcase, Headies Rewind, the DJ Obi Welcome & Nominees’ Party, the Global Trade & Investment Summit, nominees’ interviews and the red carpet. The main awards ceremony is scheduled for October 23 at 9:00 p.m. in Toronto.
With established superstars competing alongside a new generation of Nigerian and African talent, the 18th Headies has produced one of the most diverse nomination slates in recent editions.
The biggest questions now are simple: Who will dominate the night? Can the established stars hold off the new generation? And which emerging artiste will leave Toronto as Nigeria’s next big star?
Three years ago, on August 25, 2023, Burna Boy released “I Told Them…”, a 15-track album that arrived at a pivotal point in the Nigerian superstar’s international rise.
Coming after the Grammy-winning Twice As Tall and the commercially successful Love, Damini, the project was positioned as another statement from an artist increasingly comfortable moving between Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B and global pop.
Three years later, I Told Them… stands as one of the defining albums of Burna Boy’s career, producing major chart records, Grammy recognition, international hits and a blockbuster touring era.
I Told Them… featured 15 songs, including “I Told Them,” “Normal,” “On Form,” “Sittin’ on Top of the World,” “Tested, Approved & Trusted,” “Cheat on Me,” “Virgil,” “Big 7,” “Dey Play,” “City Boys,” “Giza,” “Jewels,” “If I’m Lying,” “Thanks” and “Talibans II.”
The album also brought together an impressive collection of international and African collaborators, including 21 Savage, Dave, J. Cole, Seyi Vibez and Byron Messia, while hip-hop legends RZA and GZA were also connected to the project’s creative world.
Songs such as “City Boys,” “Sittin’ on Top of the World” and “Cheat on Me” became some of the era’s biggest records, while “Big 7” and “On Form” helped reinforce the confident, larger than life persona that has become synonymous with Burna Boy.
One of the album’s biggest achievements came almost immediately after its release.
I Told Them… debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart, making Burna Boy the first-ever international Afrobeats artist to achieve a UK No. 1 album.
The achievement was particularly significant because it represented a steady progression in Burna’s UK chart history.
His previous albums had peaked at:
African Giant — No. 16
Twice As Tall — No. 11
Love, Damini — No. 2
I Told Them… — No. 1
Official Charts records I Told Them… with one week at No. 1 and 16 weeks on the UK Albums Chart.
The album also reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Streaming Chart, further demonstrating the strength of its streaming audience in the market.
The project also made an impact in the United States.
I Told Them… debuted at No. 31 on the Billboard 200, giving Burna Boy another Top 40 appearance on the US albums chart.
The album remained on the Billboard 200 in the weeks following its debut, reflecting the growing ability of Afrobeats projects to compete within the wider American music market.
Perhaps the most significant recognition from the I Told Them… era came at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards.
The album and its songs earned Burna Boy four Grammy nominations, making it a career-high at the time.
The nominations were:
Best Global Music Album — I Told Them…
Best Global Music Performance — “Alone”
Best Melodic Rap Performance — “Sittin’ on Top of the World” featuring 21 Savage
Best African Music Performance — “City Boys”
“City Boys” was particularly historic because it was nominated in the inaugural Best African Music Performance category at the Grammys.
The nominations also demonstrated the album’s versatility. Burna was being recognized not only within the global music category but also in a rap category and the newly introduced African music category.
At the ceremony, Burna Boy further brought the I Told Them… era to the Grammy stage, performing “City Boys” and “Sittin’ on Top of the World,” with 21 Savage and Brandy joining him for the latter.
The album’s most prominent crossover moment came through “Sittin’ on Top of the World,” Burna Boy’s collaboration with 21 Savage built around Brandy’s classic “Top of the World.”
The song represented a different side of Burna’s sound, leaning further into hip-hop and R&B while maintaining his own musical identity.
Its Grammy nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance placed Burna Boy alongside major American rap stars and further illustrated the increasingly blurred boundaries between Afrobeats and mainstream US music.
If “Sittin’ on Top of the World” represented Burna’s crossover ambitions, “City Boys” represented his unapologetic confidence.
The song became one of the defining records of the I Told Them… era and earned a nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 2024 Grammys.
Its inclusion in Burna Boy’s Grammy performance also gave the song another major global platform.
The I Told Them… era extended well beyond streaming and charts.
The accompanying “I Told Them…” Tour eventually became one of the biggest touring runs ever recorded for an African artist.
According to Touring Data figures reported by Billionaires.Africa, the tour generated $30.46 million from 302,801 tickets across 22 reported shows.
One of its biggest moments came at London Stadium on June 29, 2024, where Burna Boy reportedly grossed $6.15 million from 58,973 tickets.
The touring numbers are particularly important because they show that I Told Them… was not simply a successful streaming project. It translated into significant demand for Burna Boy as a live performer across North America and Europe.
The significance of I Told Them… becomes even clearer when viewed alongside Burna Boy’s previous projects.
His UK album progression went from No. 16 with African Giant to No. 11 with Twice As Tall, then No. 2 with Love, Damini before I Told Them… finally reached No 1.
Three years on, I Told Them… feels less like an isolated successful album and more like another chapter in Burna Boy’s transformation into a global superstar.
Asake brought his ‘In God We Trust’ World Tour to Toronto on Saturday, August 22, delivering a high-energy Afrobeats spectacle to a sold-out crowd at Scotiabank Arena.
The Nigerian star commanded the arena with an explosive performance packed with live instrumentation, striking LED visuals, stage smoke, energetic choreography and loud sing-alongs from thousands of fans.
The atmosphere intensified throughout the night as fans lit up the arena with their phone flashlights, creating a sea of lights while Asake moved through some of the biggest records in his catalogue.
Asake kept the energy high with performances of several fan favorites, including “Lonely At The Top,” “Forgiveness,” “Remember,” “Chanel,” “Mr. Money With The Vibe,” “Why Love,” “Asambe,” “Worship,” “EGO” and “OBA.”
“Chanel,” his collaboration with Blaqbonez, also received a huge reaction, with the Toronto audience singing along despite the featured artist not being present.
“Lonely At The Top” and “Skilful” were among the other standout moments, with fans heavily involved in the performances and Asake interacting with the crowd throughout the night.
With a sold-out Scotiabank Arena show following his North American tour dates, the ‘In God We Trust’ World Tour continues to demonstrate the international reach of Afrobeats and Asake’s growing arena level audience.
Uncle Waffles opened the Toronto show before Asake took the stage, with the tour continuing across Canada and the United States.
London’s Victoria Park became a celebration of contemporary R&B, Afrobeats, soul and UK dance music on Friday, August 21, as All Points East opened its 2026 festival run with a specially curated day headlined by Jorja Smith and Tems.
From the moment the gates opened, the festival offered a broad mix of sounds and styles, moving between soulful R&B, Afrobeats, UK garage, jungle, amapiano, hip-hop and electronic music across its stages.
With Jorga Smith curating the day alongside her label FAMM, the lineup brought together established stars, emerging voices and some of the most exciting artists shaping the current UK and African music landscape. The official bill featured Nia Archives, kwn, Ayra Starr, Odeal, Elmiene & The Sunday Service Choir, Destin Conrad, Uncle Waffles, DJ EZ, Maverick Sabre, Katy B, Wesley Joseph and many more.
By the time Tems walked onto the East Stage, the energy across Victoria Park had already been building for hours.
Performing as the penultimate act of the night, the Nigerian superstar delivered one of the evening’s most commanding performances, combining her trademark vocals with a much more physical and energetic stage presence.
Tems danced, moved across the stage and repeatedly connected with the crowd as she worked through her catalog.
One of the standout moments came during “Crazy Tings,” which quickly became one of the most talked about performances from the night.
But the biggest surprise came when Tems brought out Dave.
The British rapper joined her on stage for their collaboration “Raindance,” instantly turning an already major performance into one of the defining moments of the festival’s opening day.
The appearance was particularly fitting for the London crowd, bringing together two artists whose collaboration has become one of the strongest links between Britain’s contemporary rap scene and Nigeria’s global Afrobeats movement.
Videos of Tems and Dave performing “Raindance” quickly circulated online following the show.
Moment Tems brought out Dave at All Points East as they perform "Raindance" 🔥 🇬🇧 pic.twitter.com/6bEUIdw07t
If Tems owned the East Stage, Ayra Starr made the North Arena feel like her own headline show.
The Nigerian singer arrived with a set designed around movement, energy and familiarity, running through a mixture of major hits and songs from her newer material.
Her set included “Dangerous,” “Who’s Dat Girl,” “Bloody Samaritan,” “Misunderstood,” “Away/LHB,” “Heaven Baby,” “Midnight in NY,” “Gimme Dat,” “Pressure,” “Amazing,” “Ms Paper,” “Dance,” “Hot Body,” “Tornado,” “Rush,” “Commas” and “Sability.”
One of the sweetest moments came when kwn joined Ayra Starr on stage for “Amazing.”
The collaboration brought together two of the day’s most talked about young voices and gave the North Arena another memorable moment before the night moved toward its final headline performance.
After Tems’ explosive set and Ayra Starr’s high-energy performance elsewhere in the park, Jorja Smith had the responsibility of closing the night.
And fittingly, the festival’s curator ended the day with a set built around the music that established her as one of Britain’s most distinctive contemporary R&B voices.
Jorga Smith performed songs from across her catalog, including “Blue Lights,” “Teenage Fantasy,” “Addicted,” “Where Did I Go?,” “falling or flying” and “I Lied, You Lied.”
There was also a surprise appearance from AJ Tracey, adding another London connection to a night that repeatedly blurred the lines between UK and African music.
Away from the main headline stages, Nia Archives provided one of the strongest alternative moments of the night.
Her West Stage performance brought a completely different energy to the festival, leaning into jungle, drum & bass and the sounds that have long shaped British club culture.
Her set also created one of the night’s few genuine clashes, overlapping with Ayra Starr’s North Arena performance.
For fans attempting to catch both artists, it became one of those unavoidable festival dilemmas: stay with Ayra or head across the park for Nia Archives.
Still, the fact that both performances were attracting strong attention at the same time demonstrated just how much depth the day’s lineup possessed.
Odeal delivered a well-received performance on the West Stage, continuing the momentum around one of the UK’s rising R&B voices.
kwn also made an impression during her East Stage slot before returning later for her appearance with Ayra Starr.
Meanwhile, the special performance from Elmiene & The Sunday Service Choir provided one of the day’s more unusual and memorable combinations.
The festival’s programming also ensured that the day never became sonically one dimensional.
Uncle Waffles brought amapiano and DJ energy to the North Arena, while DJ EZ delivered the unmistakable UK garage sound.
Across the other stages, artists including Maverick Sabre, Katy B, Wesley Joseph, Destin Conrad, Bellah, Sekou, Bricknasty, Crazy Cousinz, Keyrah and others kept the park moving throughout the afternoon.
The SHY FX Presents Digital Soundboy takeover provided an entirely different experience, with jungle, drum & bass and club sounds taking over its dedicated stage.
Breakage with MC GQ, Champion, ENNY, Femi Koleoso, Saint Ludo and SHY FX himself helped create the dance-focused side of the festival.
Elsewhere, Westside Gunn brought his distinct hip-hop presence to the wider bill.
Tems is set to headline the East Stage at All Points East today at Victoria Park, London. 🎤🇬🇧
Drake has officially made Billboard history after his latest single, “Janice STFU,” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, pushing him past Michael Jackson for the most chart-topping songs by a solo male artist.
The milestone gives Drake his 14th No. 1 hit on the Hot 100, surpassing Michael Jackson’s legendary total of 13 chart-toppers, a record that stood for decades and symbolized Jackson’s dominance during the peak of his global music reign.
Michael Jackson’s No. 1 records came across several iconic eras of pop music, with classics such as “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Black or White,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and “Rock With You” helping define generations. Widely regarded as the “King of Pop,” Jackson transformed global entertainment with groundbreaking music videos, unmatched stage performances, and record-breaking album sales.
For years, his Billboard achievements remained among the most untouchable records in music history. However, Drake’s consistency in the streaming era has steadily seen him climb the all-time charts, breaking numerous records previously held by music legends.
“Janice STFU” continuing that streak further reflects Drake’s remarkable longevity and commercial power. The song exploded across streaming platforms immediately after release, dominating playlists, social media conversations, and digital sales charts worldwide.
With the new record now in his possession, Drake adds yet another historic achievement to a career already filled with Billboard milestones, multi-platinum albums, and sold-out global tours.
The 2026 American Music Awards delivered one of its most competitive and globally diverse editions with major wins spread across K-pop, pop, R&B, Latin, Afrobeats, and hip-hop. From BTS’ dominance to Sabrina Carpenter’s pop takeover and Cardi B’s hip-hop sweep, the night reflected a fully global music landscape. Held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
ARTIST CATEGORIES
ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Winner: BTS
Nominees:
Bad Bunny
Bruno Mars
BTS
Harry Styles
Justin Bieber
Kendrick Lamar
Lady Gaga
Morgan Wallen
Sabrina Carpenter
Taylor Swift
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Winner: KATSEYE
Nominees:
Alex Warren
Ella Langley
KATSEYE
Leon Thomas
Olivia Dean
SOMBR
ALBUM CATEGORIES
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Winner: Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
Nominees:
Cardi B – AM I THE DRAMA?
Fuerza Regida – 111XPANTIA
Justin Bieber – SWAG
Lady Gaga – Mayhem
Morgan Wallen – I’m The Problem
Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving
Playboi Carti – MUSIC
Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
Tate McRae – So Close To What
Taylor Swift – The Life of a Showgir
BREAKTHROUGH ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Winner: Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving
Nominees:
Olivia Dean
SOMBR
Zara Larsson
Leon Thomas
SONG CATEGORIES
SONG OF THE YEAR
Winner: “Golden” – HUNTR/X
Nominees:
Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
Ella Langley – “Choosin’ Texas”
HUNTR/X – “Golden”
Kehlani – “Folded”
Leon Thomas – “MUTT”
Morgan Wallen – “I’m The Problem”
Olivia Dean – “Man I Need”
Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
SOMBR – “Back to Friends”
Taylor Swift – “The Fate of Ophelia”
SONG OF THE SUMMER
Winner: BTS – “SWIM”
Nominees:
BTS – “SWIM”
Other viral summer hits
SOCIAL SONG OF THE YEAR
Winner: Tyla – “CHANEL”
Nominees:
Disco Lines & Tinashe – “No Broke Boys”
PinkPantheress – “Illegal”
Role Model – “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out”
Tyla – “CHANEL”
Zara Larsson – “Lush Life”
COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
Winner: PinkPantheress & Zara Larsson – “Stateside”
Nominees:
BigXthaPlug & Bailey Zimmerman – “All The Way”
David Guetta, Teddy Swims & Tones And I – “Gone Gone Gone”
Morgan Wallen & Tate McRae – “What I Want”
PinkPantheress & Zara Larsson – “Stateside”
Shaboozey & Jelly Roll – “Amen”
Tinashe & Disco Lines – “No Broke Boys”
POP CATEGORIES
BEST FEMALE POP ARTIST
Winner: Sabrina Carpenter
Nominees:
Sabrina Carpenter
Olivia Rodrigo
Taylor Swift
Lady Gaga
Dua Lipa
BEST MALE POP ARTIST
Winner: Justin Bieber
Nominees:
Justin Bieber
Harry Styles
Bruno Mars
The Weeknd
Morgan Wallen
R&B CATEGORIES
BEST FEMALE R&B ARTIST
Winner: SZA
Nominees:
SZA
Kehlani
Summer Walker
H.E.R.
Victoria Monét
BEST MALE R&B ARTIST
Winner: Bruno Mars
Nominees:
Bruno Mars
Chris Brown
The Weeknd
Khalid
Giveon
BREAKTHROUGH R&B ARTIST
Winner: Leon Thomas
Nominees:
Leon Thomas
Mariah The Scientist
Ravyn Lenae
BEST R&B SONG
Winner: Bruno Mars – “I Just Might”
Nominees:
Bruno Mars – “I Just Might”
Kehlani – “Folded”
Leon Thomas – “MUTT”
Chris Brown & Bryson Tiller – “It Depends”
Mariah The Scientist – “Burning Blue”
BEST R&B ALBUM
Winner: Bruno Mars – The Romantic
Nominees:
Bruno Mars – The Romantic
Justin Bieber – SWAG
Leon Thomas – MUTT
Mariah The Scientist – Hearts Sold Separately
Summer Walker – Finally Over It
HIP-HOP CATEGORIES
BEST FEMALE HIP-HOP ARTIST
Winner: Cardi B
Nominees:
Cardi B
Nicki Minaj
Megan Thee Stallion
Doja Cat
Latto
BEST HIP-HOP SONG
Winner: Cardi B – “ErrTime”
Nominees:
Cardi B – “ErrTime”
Other major hip-hop tracks from top female rappers
The BET Awards 2026 nominations are officially out, and this year’s list is shaping up to be one of the most globally competitive editions yet, with African stars once again making a strong impact across key categories.
From viral visuals to chart dominating collaborations, the nominations reflect a music landscape where Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop continue to collide on a worldwide stage.
Nigeria continues its steady dominance on the BET stage.
BET Awards 2026 Full Nominations
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Ella Mai — 100 Doechii — Anxiety Mariah the Scientist — Burning Blue Tyla — CHANEL Teyana Taylor — Escape Room (Short Film) Kehlani — Folded T.I. — Let ’Em Know Kendrick Lamar & SZA — Luther
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Am I The Drama? — Cardi B Don’t Tap The Glass — Artist TBC everything is a lot. — Artist TBC Hearts Sold Separately — Artist TBC Let God Sort Em Out — Clipse Mutt Deluxe: Heel — Artist TBC The Fall-Off — J. Cole The Romantic — Artist TBC
BEST FEMALE R&B / POP ARTIST
SZA Tems Ari Lennox Coco Jones Ella Mai Jill Scott Kehlani Mariah the Scientist Olivia Dean
BEST MALE R&B / POP ARTIST
Chris Brown Usher Bruno Mars Bryson Tiller Brent Faiyaz Giveon Leon Thomas October London Durand Bernarr BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Cardi B Doja Cat Megan Thee Stallion Latto GloRilla Doechii Coi Leray Sexyy Red
BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Drake J. Cole Kendrick Lamar A$AP Rocky Baby Keem Don Toliver DaBaby BigXthaPlug T.I.
BEST GROUP
Wizkid & Asake Nas & DJ Premier Metro Boomin & DJ Spinz French Montana & Max B Clipse De La Soul FLO Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon 41
BEST COLLABORATION
Gunna ft. Burna Boy — WGFT Mariah the Scientist & Kali Uchis — Is It a Crime Chris Brown ft. Bryson Tiller & Usher — It Depends (Remix) Baby Keem ft. Kendrick Lamar — Good Flirts Metro Boomin ft. Quavo, YK Niece & DJ Spinz — Take Me Thru Dere
VIEWER’S CHOICE AWARD
Drake — NOKIA Chris Brown — Residuals Doechii — Anxiety Dave ft. Tems — Raindance GELO — Tweaker Pluto & YK Niece — Whim Whamiee
BET HER AWARD
Tems — First Beyoncé — Blackbiird Summer Walker — Heart of a Woman Mary J. Blige — Beautiful People Doechii — Bloom
BEST NEW ARTIST
Leon Thomas Mariah the Scientist Olivia Dean GELO Breskii YK Niece
