The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) nominations have been unveiled, and African artists are again making their mark on the global stage. The continent boasts representation in major categories, including Best Afrobeats, MTV Push Performance of the Year, Video for Good, and Best Choreography.
Ayra Starr earned a nod in MTV Push Performance of the Year for her live rendition of “Last Heartbreak Song” in September 2024. This placed her alongside acts like Shaboozey, Mark Ambor, Lay Bankz, and Jordan Adetunji—another nominee with African roots for his February 2025 performance of “KEHLANI.”
In the Best Afrobeats category, the continent’s influence is undeniable. The nominations are stacked with big names:
Asake & Travis Scott – “Active
Burna Boy ft. Travis Scott – “TaTaTa”
MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea – “Shake It To The Max (FLY) (Remix)”
Rema – “Baby (Is It A Crime)”
Tems ft. Asake – “Get It Right”
Tyla – “PUSH 2 START”
Wizkid ft. Brent Faiyaz – “Piece Of My Heart”
South African artist Tyla received a second nomination in the Best Choreography category for her viral dance visuals in “PUSH 2 START.” She’s up against tough competition from global stars like Kendrick Lamar, FKA twigs, and Lady Gaga.
Burna Boy also stands out in the Video for Good category for his soulful, uplifting track “Higher,” which addresses hope, healing, and community. He shares the space with socially conscious entries from Eminem, Selena Gomez, and Doechii.
While Africa celebrates growing recognition, the most-nominated artists at this year’s VMAs are Lady Gaga, Kendrick Lamar, and Sabrina Carpenter, each racking up multiple nominations across major categories
The 2025 MTV VMAs will take place later this year. They will celebrate the power of music videos and the artists behind them.
See the complete list of nominations here.
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