In a historic moment for African music, four of its biggest stars— Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun well known as Wizkid; Temilade Openiyi known professionally as Tems; Divine Ikubor better known as Rema, and Ahmed Ololade professionally known as Asake —have been nominated for the prestigious 2025 American Music Awards (AMA).
 
This milestone marks a significant breakthrough for the African sound —Afrobeats, solidifying its influence on the global music scene. With their unique sounds and massive followings, the four artists are set to represent the genre on one of the world’s most-watched music platforms.
 
After an eventful 2024 that saw Rema release his sophomore album HEIS and Tems drop her debut album Born In The Wild which were both nominated for the Grammys, they will be competing for the AMA.
 
In 2024, Asake released his third album Lungu Boy, while Wizkid released his sixth LP Morayo. The success of their collaboration, MMS earned them Grammy nominations for Best African Song Performance and it has also helped earn them a nomination for the 2025 AMA.
 
The Nigerian contingent will be competing with South African star Tyla for the prize in the Favourite Afrobeats category. The award show is returning for its 51st edition after not being held in 2023 and 2024. Fan voting is now open via VoteAMAs.com and the @AMAs Instagram profile in all awards categories.
 
Voting closes Thursday, May 15, at 11:59p.m, except for collaboration of the year and social song of the year, which will remain open through the first 30 minutes of the awards broadcast, which will be held on May 25. It will be hosted by Jennifer Lopez and broadcast on CBS.