In a dazzling celebration of African and Afro-inspired music and artistry, the BK Arena in Kigali was the epicenter of talent and creativity as the 2023 Trace Awards unfolded on Saturday, October 21st. With artists from across the globe competing in 26 award categories, the event proved to be a testament to the power and influence of African contemporary music on the world stage.

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Davido, a shining star from Nigeria, took home the honors for Best Male Artist and shared the Best Collaboration award with South Africa’s Musa Keys for their hit “Unavailable.” Meanwhile, Rema captured the spotlight by winning in the Global African Artist and Song of the Year categories with his soulful track “Calm Down.” Burna Boy’s “Love Damini” secured the Best Album award, and Vivian Chidid received accolades as the Best Female Artist.

The winners’ circle also included Diamond Platnumz as Best Artist – East Africa and Rwandan sensation Bruce Melodie as the Best Rwandan Artist. Ivory Coast’s Didi B was recognized as the Best Artist Africa – Francophone, with KS Bloom and Tam Sir from the same country clinching the Best Gospel Artist and Best Producer titles. Lisandro Cuxi was named Best Artist Africa – Lusophone.

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Nigeria’s legendary 2Face was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award, recognizing his illustrious music career. Rutshelle Guillance was named Best Artist – Caribbean, while Goulam triumphed as Best Artist – Indian Ocean, and Dystinct claimed victory as Best Artist – North Africa. Yemi Alade’s hit “Baddie” took home the prize for Best Video.

Beyond the African continent, British rapper Central Cee emerged as the Best Artist – UK, while Tayc triumphed in the Best Artist – France & Belgium category. Ludmilla, a Brazilian sensation, was named Best Artist – Brazil, and Michael Brun was celebrated as Best DJ for Haiti.

Throughout the night, the BK Arena reverberated with the contemporary rhythms and vibes from artists hailing from Africa and the African diaspora. The show’s highlights included electrifying collaborations between artists of different nationalities and music genres.

Fronted by Afrobeat legend D’Banj and Angolan supermodel Maria Borges, the Trace Awards featured performances and collaborations from over 50 stars, seamlessly blending Afrobeat with Bongo Flava, Coupé Decalé, Soukouss, Rap, Rai, Gospel, and more. These performances showcased the incredible diversity and unity of the Afro-centric music scene.

The Trace Awards were a milestone event organized by the global music powerhouse, Trace, to commemorate its 20th anniversary. The awards celebrated the exceptional talent and diversity within Afro-centric music genres such as Afrobeat, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Afro-pop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, Soukous, Gospel, Rap, Rai, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba.

The awards ceremony was broadcast live on October 21, 2023, on Trace TV channels, radio, digital platforms, and global streaming services. A 90-minute highlights show is set to air on Trace channels and partner TV stations and platforms starting from October 28. The Trace Awards were presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell.

Olivier Laouchez, Chairman, and Co-Founder of Trace, applauded the extraordinary talent and creativity of African and African-origin artists, affirming their global impact. The night was indeed a spectacular showcase of the vibrant music culture and talent that Africa has to offer.

To stay updated on the Trace Awards and join the conversation, follow Trace on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or TikTok, and use the hashtags #TraceAwardsRwanda2023, #TraceAwardsandFestival, and #TraceAwardsTour.