Nigerian music stars have made history at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, with 10 nominations across various categories. This is the highest number of nominations for any African country in a single year, surpassing the previous record of six nominations held by South Africa in 2010.
The nominations reflect the global influence and popularity of Afrobeats, a genre that blends African rhythms with pop, hip-hop, and dancehall influences. Afrobeats emerged in the early 2000s and has since captivated listeners worldwide with its infectious beats, catchy melodies, and vibrant energy.
Among the Nigerian nominees are Davido, Burna Boy, Olamide, Ayra Starr, Fireboy DML, and Asake. They compete for prestigious awards such as Best Global Music Album, Best African Performance, Best Melodic Rap, and Album of the Year.
Davido, who received three nominations, expressed his excitement on Twitter: “I’m speechless. This is a dream come true. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and my music. I dedicate this to my country, my continent, and my fans. We did it!”
Burna Boy, who won the Best Global Music Album award last year for his album Twice as Tall, is nominated again in the same category for his album I Told Them. He also received three other nominations, including Best Melodic Rap for his song Sittin On Top Of The World.
Olamide, who collaborated with Asake on the hit song Amapiano, said he was honoured to be nominated for the first time in the newly created Best African Performance category. He said: “This is a big moment for me and for Afrobeats. I’m proud to represent my culture and my country on the global stage. Amapiano is a song that celebrates life and happiness, and I hope it brings joy to everyone who listens to it.”
Ayra Starr, who also received her first nomination for her song Rush, said she was grateful for the recognition. She said: “Rush is a song that speaks to the power and beauty of being a woman. I’m humbled and thrilled to be nominated alongside such amazing artists. This is a win for all women and all Africans.”
Fireboy DML, who contributed to Jon Batiste’s World Music Radio, which is nominated for Album of the Year, said he was overwhelmed by the nomination. He said: “This is beyond my wildest dreams. To be part of such a phenomenal project and to be nominated for the biggest award in music is unbelievable. I’m so thankful to Jon Batiste for giving me this opportunity and to all my fans for their love and support.”
Asake, a first-time nominee, said he was ecstatic about the nomination. He said: “Amapiano is a song I made with my brother Olamide, and we had so much fun. I never expected it to be nominated for a Grammy, but I’m so happy and grateful that it is. This is a blessing and a motivation for me to keep making good music.”
The Nigerian nominations have sparked celebrations and congratulations from fans, fellow artists, and political leaders. President Tinubu congratulated the nominees: “You have brought glory and honour to Nigeria and Africa with your exceptional talents and achievements. You have shown the world the richness and diversity of our culture and music. You have made us all proud.”
The 64th Annual Grammy Awards will be held on February 5, 2023, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The event will be broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+.
Source: Business Day Nigeria
