In a spectacular celebration of African and Afro-inspired music and artists, the inaugural Trace Awards, held in Kigali, Rwanda on October 21, 2023, witnessed Nigerian music stars Davido and Rema shining brightly as they clinched several prestigious awards.
The Trace Awards aims to honor the creativity, talent, and influence of African and Afro-inspired musicians, and the ceremony showcased the best talents from the continent.
Rema, the rising star, took home the coveted ‘Song of the Year’ award for his hit track ‘Calm Down.’ The ‘Best Global African Artiste’ award saw an exciting tie between the Nigerian sensation and Nomcebo.
Meanwhile, Davido proved his mettle by securing the titles of ‘Best Male’ and ‘Best Collaboration.’ His compatriot Burna Boy walked away with the prestigious ‘Album of the Year’ award.
The awards ceremony was graced by the presence of Nigerian singer D’Banj and Angolan global supermodel Maria Borges as the hosts.
Here is the complete list of winners for the 2023 Trace Awards:
Album of the Year
DNK – Aya Nakamura (France)
Love Damini – Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Maverick – Kizz Daniel (Nigeria)
More Love, Less Ego – Wizkid (Nigeria)
Timeless – Davido (Nigeria)
Song of the Year
“BKBN” – Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)
“People” – Libianca (Cameroon)
“Suavemente” – Soolking (France)
“Encre” – Emma’a (Gabon)
“Sugarcane” – Camidoh (Ghana)
“Last Last” – Burna Boy (Nigeria)
“Rush” – Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
“Calm Down” – Rema (Nigeria)
“Peru” – Fireboy DML (Nigeria) with Ed Sheeran (UK)