The Trace Awards & Summit 2025 has officially wrapped, and what a night it was! Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mora Resort in Zanzibar, this year’s edition was nothing short of electrifying—a full-throttle celebration of African and Afro-descendant music in all its power, passion, and global influence.
From viral anthems to cultural trailblazers, the winners of the night weren’t just taking home trophies—they were making history. Here’s the full list of champions who set the stage on fire and cemented their place in the global music scene.
The Trailblazers & Chart-Toppers
- Song of the Year – Titom & Yuppe (South Africa) – “Tshwala Bam”
- Album of the Year – Rema (Nigeria) – Heis
- Male Artist of the Year – Rema (Nigeria)
- Best Collaboration – Tamsir & Team Paiya (Ivory Coast)
- Best Music Video – Meji Alabi – “DND” by Rema
- Best Dancer – Makhadzi (South Africa)
- Best DJ – DJ Moh Green (Algeria)
- Best Global African Artist – Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
- Best Hip Hop Artist – Didi B (Ivory Coast)
- Best Female Artist – Tyla (South Africa)
- Best Live Performance – Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)
- Best Producer – P.Priime (Nigeria)
- Best Gospel Artist – Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
The Regional Champions
African music is a universe of sounds, and these artists reign supreme in their regions:
- Best Artist Francophone Africa – Josey (Ivory Coast)
- Best Artist Western Africa – Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
- Best Artist Southern Africa – Tyler ICU (South Africa)
- Best Artist Eastern Africa – Bien (Kenya)
- Best Artist Lusophone Africa – Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
- Best Artist Tanzania – Nandy (Tanzania)
The Diaspora’s Brightest Stars
African influence knows no borders. These artists are proof:
- Best Artist Diaspora Europe – Joe Dwet Filé (France)
- Best Artist Diaspora Brazil – Duquesa (Brazil)
- Best Artist Diaspora Indian Ocean – Lea Churros (Réunion)
- Best Artist Diaspora Caribbean – Kenny Haitï
Special Honors: The Icons & Future Legends
- Changemaker Award – Sherrie Silver (Rwanda)
- Best Newcomer – Himra (Ivory Coast)
- Lifetime Achievement Award – D’Banj (Nigeria)
Speaking on the significance of the night, Olivier Laouchez, Chairman and Co-Founder of Trace, shared: “The Trace Awards & Summit was born from an unshakable belief: that Africa’s music, its artists, and its culture deserve to be celebrated on the highest level, with the world watching. Our mission is not just to spotlight the incredible talent emerging from the continent but to create a global stage where African creativity is recognized, respected, and rewarded.”And that’s exactly what this year’s awards achieved—an unforgettable celebration of African artistry in its purest form.
Missed the action? A highlights show will air in early March on Trace channels and partner TV stations, giving fans a front-row seat to every show-stopping moment.
Featured image(s): Supplied by Trace
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