Beyond Borders: African Icons Who Made Waves and Headlines Worldwide
In 2023, a constellation of African stars has not only made history but has firmly established themselves as global trailblazers in the music industry.
These icons have garnered prestigious awards and nominations, with notable recognition at the Grammys, Soul Train Awards, Afrimma, and the Headies. Their collective impact reflects the incredible diversity and talent emanating from the African music scene, marking a historic chapter in the global music landscape.
REMA
In a spectacular rise to stardom, Rema has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the global music scene, amassing an extraordinary collection of accolades in 2023. The Headies Awards recognized his exceptional talent with a sweep of victories, including Artist of the Year, Best Male Artiste, Digital Artiste of the Year, and African Artiste of the Year. Rema’s influence roared on an international scale, with his Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song, MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats, and MTV Europe Music Award for Best Afrobeats further solidifying his position as a chart-topping sensation. The conquest continued with Trace Live Awards, where Rema bagged honors for Song of the Year and Best Global African Artist.
Rema made history at the renowned Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, France. With a captivating performance of his hit “Calm Down,” he achieved a historic milestone, gracing an event that united current and former football legends to celebrate sporting excellence’s pinnacle.
DAVIDO
Davido’s 2023 has been nothing short of spectacular, marked by the release of his viral sensation “Unavailable ft. Musa Keys” from the critically acclaimed Timeless album. This musical maestro has garnered a string of accolades, including the AFRIMMA Album of the Year for his fourth masterpiece, ‘Timeless.’ The recognition continued at the Trace Live Awards, where he secured Best Male Artist and Best Collaboration honors. Davido’s star power is set to shine even brighter as he clinches three Grammy nominations for the upcoming 2024 awards. His nominations span multiple categories, including Best African Music Performance, Best Global Album for the groundbreaking ‘Timeless,’ and Best Global Music Performance for the soul-stirring track “Feel.” Davido’s excellent year is a testament to his enduring talent and unwavering impact on the global music stage.
AYRA STARR
At a mere 21 years old, Ayra Starr is soaring to unprecedented heights in her captivating career. This year alone, she clinched the prestigious titles of Best Female Artiste of the Year at the 16th Headies Awards and Best Female for West Africa at AFRIMMA. Ayra’s global acclaim reached new heights with a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance, while her ongoing European tour continues to captivate audiences.
Notably, her viral sensation “Rush” made waves worldwide, peaking at number 24 in the UK and securing top 40 positions in Switzerland and the Netherlands. The most streamed female artist on Spotify 2023, the magic of Ayra’s artistry extends to certifications, with the sensational track earning Brit’s Gold, Diamond in France, and Platinum in Canada. Ayra Starr is not just an artist; she’s a meteoric force redefining the music landscape.
Ayra Starr Tour in Europe
ASAKE
Asake, the musical magician, is poised to enchant the world with his extraordinary talents, and 2023 has been nothing short of a magical journey for him. The accolades speak volumes, including the MTV Video Music Award for the Best Afrobeats and the coveted title of Best Artist Africa – Anglophone at the Trace Live Awards. As if that weren’t enough, Asake emerged triumphant at The Future Awards Africa 2023 in the Music category, surpassing even the likes of Ayra Starr.
His artistry transcends borders, earning him a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance. The pinnacle of his success was headlining a sold-out show at The O2 London on August 20, 2023. Asake is not just an artist; he’s a maestro rewriting the narrative of Nigerian music on the global stage.
TYLA
Tyla, a true South African sensation, has catapulted onto the global stage with unparalleled grace. In a groundbreaking debut at the Grammy Awards, her hit song “Water” earned a nomination for Best African Music Performance, marking a momentous milestone in her booming career. Beyond the prestigious accolades, Tyla’s achievement resonates on international charts, with her chart-topping success propelling “Water” to become her inaugural entry into the UK Singles Chart, securing a spot in the top 10 in October 2023. Notably, the song made waves in the US, debuting at an impressive number 67 on the Billboard Hot 100, & currently charting top 10 the highest charting African female artist in history officially surpassing “Pata Pata” by Miriam Makeba in 56 years. swiftly capturing hearts and going viral on TikTok.
Tyla teases a snippet of her new self title album coming out December 1st.