The stars aligned at this year’s Trace Awards, the second edition, as the crème de la crème of the Africa music industry gathered to celebrate excellence and artistry. The night was ablaze with talent, as Ayra Starr, Rema, Mercy Chinwo, and D’banj shone brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the ceremony.
International music star Divine Ikubor, well known as Rema, continued his meteoric rise, winning ‘Album of the Year’ for Heis, a project that seamlessly blends Afrobeats with international sounds, further cementing his place as one of Africa’s most dynamic artistes. He also took home the ‘Best Male Artiste’ award, reaffirming his dominance in the industry.
His fellow Grammys nominee, Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr, continued her reign as West African music sensation, impressing with her powerful voice and chart-topping hits as she was crowned the ‘Best West African Artiste’. Her counterpart in the gospel genre, Mercy Chinwo won the ‘Best Gospel Artiste’ award for her soulful and uplifting music.
Afrobeats icon, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo better known as D’banj or the Koko Master secured the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’. Other notable Nigerian winners include P.priime who won the ‘Best Producer’ category for MMS, while Meji Alabi claimed the ‘Best Music Video Director’ award for Rema’s DND.
South African duo Titom & Yuppe took home the coveted ‘Song of the Year’ award for their smash hit Tshwala Bam, a track that ignited dance floors across the globe. The infectious beat and energetic rhythm made the song a cultural phenomenon. Grammys winner, Tyla was named ‘Best Female Artiste’, a well-deserved recognition for her originality and unique style that has captivated listeners worldwide.
Makhadzi, the unstoppable South African sensation, reaffirmed her reputation as a captivating performer, taking home the award for ‘Best Dancer’. Her electrifying stage presence and dynamic moves left a lasting impression on the audience.
Tanzanian music sensation Diamond Platnumz continued his global domination, winning ‘Best Global African Artiste’. His fellow country songstress Nandy was honoured as the Best Tanzanian Artiste, recognising her outstanding contributions to the country’s music industry, while Ivorian rapper Didi B stood out in the ‘Best Hip Hop Artiste’ category with his sharp flow and undeniable talent.
Meanwhile, Algeria’s DJ Moh Green cemented his position as a leading force in African music, earning the prestigious title of ‘Best DJ’. This recognition solidifies his influence on the continent’s vibrant music scene as one of Africa’s most influential mixmasters.
The regional winners were a testament to the rich musical talent across Africa. Ivorian singer Josey took home the award for ‘Best French-Speaking Artiste’. In Southern Africa, Tyler ICU cemented his status as a leading musician with his award win, while Kenyan artiste Bien was celebrated as the ‘Best East African Artiste’, just as Angola’s Chelsea Dinorath was hailed as the ‘Best Portuguese-Speaking Artiste’, thanks to her exceptional talent.
Established by Trace Group to celebrate African and Afro-inspired music and culture around the world, its first edition was held in Kigali, Rwanda, on Saturday October 21, 2023 at the BK Arena, Kigali with D’banj and Angolan model Maria Borges as hosts/compere.
This year’s event highlighted the continent’s growing global influence, with Afrobeats, Amapiano, and various African music genres taking centre stage. Held at the luxurious Mora Resort in Zanzibar, the ceremony transformed the Tanzanian capital city into a vibrant epicenter of music, culture, and innovation.
