Afrobeats is once again at the forefront of the global music scene as the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) unveil a star-studded lineup for the Best Afrobeats category, cementing the genre’s meteoric rise on the world stage.
MTV and CBS announced the full list of nominees ahead of the awards ceremony, set to air live from New York’s UBS Arena on Monday, September 8, at 00:00 WAT (DStv Channel 130).
Leading the nominations is Nigerian sensation Asake, who scored two nods in the Best Afrobeats category — for Active, his high-energy collaboration with American rap star Travis Scott, and Get It Right with Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems. Both tracks exemplify the genre’s seamless blend with global pop and hip-hop influences.
Another titan of the scene, Burna Boy, also secured two nominations. His track TaTaTa featuring Travis Scott is up for Best Afrobeats, while his empowering anthem Higher received a nomination in the prestigious Video for Good category, showcasing his ability to merge social commentary with chart-topping appeal.
South African breakout star Tyla, whose viral hits have captivated audiences worldwide, landed two nominations for PUSH 2 START — in Best Afrobeats and Best Choreography — underscoring her influence as both a musical and dance trendsetter.
The Best Afrobeats lineup also features Rema for his soulful single Baby (Is It A Crime), marking another milestone in his expanding global footprint, and Wizkid, who earned a nomination for Piece Of My Heart, his smooth, heartfelt collaboration with American R&B artist Brent Faiyaz.
Rounding out the category are MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng, and Shenseea with their infectious Afro-Caribbean fusion remix Shake It To The Max (FLY), which brings vibrant island energy to the Afrobeats wave.
This year’s nominees reflect the genre’s diversity — from club bangers to socially conscious anthems — and its power to unite cultures across continents. With Afrobeats artists selling out global arenas, dominating charts, and shaping pop culture, the 2025 VMAs are poised to be yet another milestone in the sound’s unstoppable global takeover.
