Tems, Burna Boy, Davido, Lojay, Wizkid, and Rema, Earn 2025 Grammy Nominations

The 2025 Grammy nominations have arrived with African music firmly in the spotlight, showcasing the continent’s growing influence in global music. This year, several African artists have received nods across multiple categories, marking another significant step for African music on the world stage. Yet, despite these victories, some expected names were absent, sparking conversations about fairness and representation within the prestigious awards.

Perhaps the most significant achievement among African nominees is Tems, who has made history with her 2025 Grammy nominations. She becomes the first Nigerian female artist with a Grammy-nominated album, as her debut, Born in the Wild, lands a spot in the Best Global Music Album category alongside Rema’s HEIS. Tems also earned a nomination in the Best R&B Performance category for her single “Burning,” making her the first African artist to be recognised in this prestigious category and “Love Me Jeje” was nominated for Best African Music Performance.

Tems’ rise is remarkable not only for her musical talent but for the milestones she’s achieved. “Burning” has recently surpassed 100,000 units sold in the US, and her groundbreaking success is being watched keenly, particularly as she continues to break barriers in global music.

Burna Boy, a household name in the global music industry, continues to receive well-deserved recognition, with his track “Higher” earning a nomination in the Best African Music Performance category. He is joined by a familiar list of nominees in this category: Yemi Alade, Asake, Chris Brown, Davido and Lojay’s Sensational and Wizkid. Yemi Alade’s “Tomorrow” and Asake & Wizkid’s collaboration on “MMS” have been cut as well

Burna Boy’s career trajectory has been meteoric, with a previous Grammy win under his belt and being nominated for the second consecutive year under the Best African Music Performance. His presence in the Best African Music Performance category, alongside other established stars like Wizkid and Asake, underscores the continued dominance of Nigerian (Afrobeats) artists in the global music scene. Also, Angélique Kidjo and Soweto Gospel Choir were nominated for Best Global Music Performance for their song “Sunlight.”

While the seasoned stars continue to dominate, newer artists are also being recognised. Nigerian artists Rema and Lojay earned their first Grammy nomination this year. Lojay joins Davido for his second consecutive year in the Best African Music Performance category with the song “Sensational.” Lojay’s inclusion highlights the growing breadth of Afrobeats’ influence and the arrival of fresh talent on the international stage. 

However, despite these successes, the 2025 Grammy nominations also shed light on some glaring snubs that have left fans and critics questioning the Grammy Academy’s commitment to fully representing the diverse and dynamic music coming from Africa. South African Artists like Tyla, who has made a notable mark in the international music scene and previously won the inaugural Best African Music Performance category in 2024—have left some fans disappointed. Ayra Starr, who has enjoyed widespread success with her sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21 and is currently on tour with Coldplay, was expected to be in contention for nominations but was left out.

The 2025 Grammy nominations have proven that African artists continue to shape the global music landscape. From Tems’ historic nominations to the continued dominance of Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Rema, Africa’s influence is undeniable. However, the exclusions of Ayra Starr and Tyla suggest that while African music is flourishing, the recognition it deserves is still a work in progress. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that the conversation around African music and its Grammy recognition is far from over.

View Full Nomination List Here.

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Ikenna Churchill

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