The 17th Headies Awards, held on Sunday in Lagos, Nigeria, celebrated outstanding achievements and moments of excellence across the African music scene, bringing together the biggest names in the industry. This year’s edition saw several notable artists walk away with prestigious accolades, highlighting the incredible talent and impact of African musicians on a global scale. The event was full of excitement, with stars and fans alike celebrating the rich diversity of musical styles and creativity that have shaped the African music scene in recent times.
Among the standout winners was Zerry DL, who claimed the coveted Rookie of the Year award, solidifying his place as an emerging force in the music industry. Davido further cemented his dominance in the digital space by winning the Digital Artist of the Year award, a testament to his influence and massive presence on social media and streaming platforms. Rema made waves with his album HEIS, which earned the prestigious Afrobeats Album of the Year award, reflecting his growing international success and recognition. Tems, one of Africa's brightest stars, won Best Recording of the Year for her chart-topping hit “Burning,” further showcasing her vocal prowess and artistic brilliance.
In a moment that left the audience in awe, Odumodublvck was named the Next Rated Artist, taking home the award ahead of fellow nominees Shallipopi, Qing Madi, and Ayo Maff. This honor marks a major milestone in Odumodublvck’s career, cementing his place as one of the most promising talents in the African music scene. The night also paid tribute to key individuals who have made significant contributions to the cultural and music landscape, with Special Recognition Awards going to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, music executive Alex Okosi, and football administrator Amaju Pinnick, acknowledging their efforts in fostering the growth of the arts and entertainment sectors.
The 17th Headies Awards marked a special moment in the event’s history, with the recognition of the 2025 edition being followed by a double celebration. Due to the absence of the 2024 awards, the 18th edition is already scheduled for December, ensuring that fans and artists alike have something to look forward to later in the year.
Full list of winners at the 2025 Headies Awards
Rookie of the Year:[/b] Zerry DL
Soundtrack of the Year:[/b] “Tribe Called Judah Soundtrack” – TCJ & Abbey Wonder (A Tribe Called Judah Soundtrack)
Best Recording of the Year:[/b] “Burning” – Tems
Best Vocal Performance (Male):[/b] “Billions” – Lojay
Best Vocal Performance (Female):[/b] “I’m Done” – Liya
Special Recognition Award Recipients:[/b] Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Alex Okosi; Amaju Pinnick
Songwriter of the Year:[/b] “Vision” – Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma (Qing Madi)
Producer of the Year:[/b] “OZEBA” – London
Afrobeats Album of the Year:[/b] HEIS – Rema
Music Video of the Year:[/b] “EGWU” – Director Pink
Afrobeats Single of the Year:[/b] “Big Baller” – Flavour
Headies’ Viewers’ Choice:[/b] “Egwu” – Chike & Mohbad
Headies Next Rated:[/b] Odumodublvck
Digital Artiste of the Year:[/b] Davido
Best Rap Single:[/b] “Cast” – Shallipopi & Odumodublvck
Best East African Artiste of the Year:[/b] Juma Jux (Tanzania)
Best Street-hop Artiste:[/b] Mohbad – Ask About Me
Song of the Year:[/b] “Lonely at the Top” – Asake
Best Central African Artiste of the Year:[/b] Innoss’B (DRC)