Trace Awards 2025: A Grand Celebration of African Music in Zanzibar

Trace Awards 2025: A Grand Celebration of African Music in Zanzibar

The 2025 Trace Awards lit up the stunning island of Zanzibar, Tanzania, as the biggest names in African and Afro-inspired music gathered for a night of electrifying performances, historic wins, and cultural celebration. From February 24th to 26th, the event brought together established icons, rising stars, and industry leaders to honour the diverse and dynamic sounds shaping the global music scene.

A Night to Remember

This year’s Trace Awards were not just about accolades; they were about storytelling, identity, and the undeniable power of music to unite cultures. Hosted in the picturesque backdrop of Zanzibar, the event showcased the continent’s incredible talent while highlighting Tanzania’s growing influence in the global entertainment industry.

With a lineup of thrilling performances, high-energy collaborations, and a glamorous blue carpet, the night was a perfect blend of spectacle and substance. Fans across Africa and beyond tuned in to witness history being made, as artists from all corners of the continent were recognised for their contributions to the music industry.

The Big Winners of the Night

From Afrobeats and Amapiano to Bongo Flava and Gqom, the awards covered a range of genres that have put African music on the world map. The night’s winners included:

Song of the Year: Titom & Yuppe (South Africa) for Tshwala Bam

Album of the Year: – Rema (Nigeria) for Heis

Male Artist of the Year: Rema (Nigeria)

Best Female Artist: Tyla (South Africa)

Best Global African Artist: Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

Best Artist Francophone Africa: Josey (Ivory Coast)

Best Artist Western Africa: Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

Best Artist Southern Africa: Tyler (South Africa)

Best Artist Eastern Africa: Bien (Kenya)

Best Artist Lusophone Africa: Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)

Best Artist Tanzania: Nandy

Best Artist Diaspora Europe: Joe Dwet Filé (France)

Best Artist Diaspora Brazil: Duquesa

Best Artist Diaspora Indian Ocean: Lea Churros (Réunion)

Best Artist Diaspora Caribbean: Kenny Haitï

Best Collaboration: Tam Sir & Team Paiya (Ivory Coast) for Coup du Marteau

Best Music Video: Meji Alabi for DND by Remi

Best Dancer Award: Makhadzi (South Africa)

Best DJ: DJ Moh Green (Algeria)

Best Hip-Hop Artist: Didi B (Ivory Coast)

Best Live Performance: Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)

Best Producer: P.Priime (Nigeria)

Best Gospel Artist: Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)

Best Newcomer: Himra (Ivory Coast)

The Lifetime Achievement Award: D’Banj (Nigeria)

 The Rise of African Music

The Trace Awards 2025 weren’t just about celebrating artists; they were a testament to how far African music has come. With Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Bongo Flava dominating international charts, collaborations between African and Western artists at an all-time high, and streaming platforms prioritising African content, the industry is experiencing a golden era.

“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. Trace has always been driven by a deep passion for the music and culture of Africa and its diaspora, and we remain committed to elevating it to new heights,” stated Olivier Laouchez, Chairman and Co-Founder of Trace.

The Trace Awards 2025 in Zanzibar will go down as a night that not only celebrated Africa’s biggest musical talents but also reaffirmed the continent’s influence on the global stage. With more investment, collaborations, and recognition, the future of African music looks brighter than ever.

For those who missed it, you can catch the highlights, performances, and blue carpet moments from the Trace Awards 2025 below: