Headies 2023: Burna Boy, Rema, Asake, Win Big In US [Full Winners List]

The 16th edition of the Headies award, one of the most prestigious music awards in Africa, took place on Sunday at the Cobb Energy Performing Centre, Atlanta US.

iexclusivenews reports that the award night themed ‘Celebrating African Renaissance,’ honoured the best and brightest stars in the African music industry.

Grammy award-winning artiste, Burna Boy was the biggest winner of the night, bagging several awards including Best Afrobeats Single of the Year with the song ‘Last Last’.

The song, which features American rapper Future, is a fusion of afrobeat and hip-hop that showcases Burna Boy’s versatility and global appeal.

Other stars who shined at the Headies award night include Asake, who won the highly-coveted ‘Next Rated’ award while also scoring the ‘Album of the Year’ category for ‘Mr. Money With The Vibe’, and Rema, who won Best Male Artist and Digital Artist of the Year.

The award night also featured electrifying performances from some of the nominees and winners, such as Seyi Vibez, Odumodublvck, Victony, Obong Jayar, and Black Sheriff.

Here is the full list of the winners below:

Headies 2023: Burna Boy, Rema, Asake, Win Big In US [Full Winners List]

Rema (Calm Down)

The young and talented Rema beat out other heavyweights such as Wizkid, Davido, Fireboy DML, and Omah Lay to win the Best Male Artist category. His song ‘Calm Down’ was a massive hit that topped several charts and playlists across Africa and beyond. The song also earned him the Digital Artist of the Year award for having the most streams and downloads online.

Afrobeats Single of the Year

‘Last Last’ – Burna Boy

Burna Boy proved once again why he is the African Giant by winning the Afrobeats Single of the Year with his song ‘Last Last’. The song, which features American rapper Future, is a fusion of afrobeat and hip-hop that showcases Burna Boy’s versatility and global appeal. The song also won him the Song of the Year award, making him the most awarded artiste of the night.

Best Rap Single

‘Declan Rice’ – ODUMODUBLVCK

ODUMODUBLVCK is a rising star in the rap scene who impressed everyone with his witty and clever lyrics on his song ‘Declan Rice’. The song is a tribute to the English footballer who plays for West Ham United and England national team. The song also showcases ODUMODUBLVCK’s flow and delivery, which earned him the Rookie of the Year award.

Best Video Director

‘Calm Down’ – Director K (Rema)

Director K is one of the most creative and innovative video directors in Africa who has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. His work on Rema’s ‘Calm Down’ was a masterpiece that captured the essence and mood of the song. The video featured stunning visuals, effects, and choreography that made it stand out from the rest.

Best Male Vocal Performance

‘Kpe Paso’ – Wande Coal

Wande Coal is a veteran in the music industry who has been delivering hits for over a decade. His song ‘Kpe Paso’ was a soulful and melodious tune that showcased his vocal prowess and range. The song was a fan favourite that received rave reviews from critics and listeners alike.

Best Alternative Song

‘Tinko Tinko’ – Obong Jayar

Obong Jayar is a newcomer in the alternative music scene who has been making waves with his unique and refreshing sound. His song ‘Tinko Tinko’ was a catchy and upbeat song that blended elements of folk, pop, and afrobeat. The song was a breath of fresh air that appealed to a wide audience.

Best Rap Album

‘Young Preacher’ by Blaqbonez

Blaqbonez is one of the most talented and prolific rappers in Africa who has been dropping bars and albums consistently. His latest album ‘Young Preacher’ was a masterpiece that showcased his skills, versatility, and creativity. The album featured guest appearances from some of the best rappers in the game such as MI Abaga, Vector, Falz, Ice Prince, and more. The album also earned him the Lyricist on the Roll award for his outstanding wordplay and punchlines.

Producer of the Year

‘Abracadabra’ by Rexxie

Rexxie is one of the most sought-after producers in Africa who has been behind some of the biggest hits in recent times. His production on ‘Abracadabra’ by BOJ, Davido, and Mr Eazi was a masterpiece that blended afrobeat, dancehall, and pop. The song was a club banger that got everyone dancing and grooving.

Best Inspirational Song

‘Eze Ebube’ – Neon Adejo

Neon Adejo is a gospel singer who has been spreading the message of faith and hope through his music. His song ‘Eze Ebube’ which means ‘King of Glory’ in Igbo language was a powerful and uplifting song that praised God for his goodness and mercy. The song was a source of inspiration and motivation for many people who were going through hard times.

Special Recognition

Sound Sultan

Sound Sultan was a legendary musician who passed away in July 2021 after a battle with cancer. He was one of the pioneers of the Nigerian music industry who influenced and mentored many of the current stars. He was known for his socially conscious and humorous songs that addressed various issues in the society. He was honoured with a special recognition award for his contributions and legacy in the music industry.

Best Street Hop Single

‘Chance’ – Seyi Vibez

Seyi Vibez is one of the hottest street hop artistes in Nigeria who has been dropping hits after hits. His song ‘Chance’ was a motivational and inspirational song that encouraged people to never give up on their dreams and aspirations. The song resonated with many people who related to his struggles and success story.

Next Rated Artist

Asake

Asake is one of the most promising and talented artistes in Nigeria who has been making waves with his catchy and melodious songs. His debut album ‘Mr. Money With The Vibez’ was a hit that featured songs such as ‘Mr Money’, ‘Don’t Hype Me’, ‘Body’, and more. The album also won him the Album of the Year award, making him the second most awarded artiste of the night.

West African Artist of the Year

Black Sheriff

Black Sheriff is a Ghanaian artiste who has been dominating the West African music scene with his unique and captivating sound. His song ‘Second Sermon’ was a viral sensation that broke records and charts across Africa and beyond. The song was a rap anthem that showcased his skills, charisma, and confidence. He beat out other contenders such as Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, and more to win the West African Artist of the Year award.