The Grammy Awards have long been the pinnacle of global music recognition. Despite facing critiques over the years, the Recording Academy’s annual ceremony remains a prestigious benchmark that many artists around the world aspire to.
This year, the excitement is palpable, especially with Nigerian artists taking significant spots on the nominations list.
Their reactions further emphasize the importance of these accolades, demonstrating that the Grammys still carry immense weight within the music industry.
As the influence of Afrobeats and African music continues to expand, the global scene has become more inclusive, recognizing talents that were once overlooked.
While the Recording Academy’s acknowledgment of African artists may not be as comprehensive as fans would prefer, there is clear progress.
For 2025, Nigerian artists have made their mark in categories beyond the traditional “Best Global Music Performance,” showcasing their versatility and global appeal.
Tems, who has consistently proven her musical prowess, continues her winning streak with a Grammy nomination for 2025.
Known for her soulful voice and captivating performances, Tems’ influence has extended far beyond Nigeria.
This nomination highlights her seamless ability to blend R&B with Afro-centric sounds, a testament to her unique artistry and global appeal.
The “African Giant” himself, Burna Boy, is no stranger to the Grammy stage. Having previously won the award and received multiple nominations, Burna Boy is once again up for a Grammy in 2025.
Wizkid, another heavyweight in the Afrobeats movement, has also garnered attention with a nomination this year.
This year’s Grammy Awards are a testament to how far Nigerian artists have come, with nominations not just in the Best African Music Performance category but also in broader segments like R&B and global music collaborations.
The inclusion of Nigerian artists in these categories shows their ability to hold their own against international powerhouses, proving that Afrobeats and its fusion genres are here to stay.
While there is still room for greater representation and acknowledgment, the 2025 Grammy nominations have given Nigerian artists a platform that reflects their hard work and global impact.
The journey to this point has been long, but the progress is undeniable.
2025 Grammy Nominees from Nigeria
Best Global Music Album
Antonio Rey – Historias de un Flamenco
Ciro Hurtado – Paisajes
Matt B & Royal Philharmonic
Orchestra – Alkebulan II
Rema – Heis
Tems – Born in the Wild
Best R&B Song
Coco Jones – Here We Go (Uh Oh)
Kehlani – After Hours
Muni Long – Ruined Me
SZA – Saturn
Tems – Burning
Best African Music Performance
Asake & Wizkid – MMS
Burna Boy – Higher
Chris Brown Featuring Davido & Lojay – Sensational
Tems – Love Me JeJe
Yemi Alade – Tomorrow
