The Trace Music Awards: Celebrating African Urban Music
BY wiiiwalk
january 19, 2025
The Trace Music Awards have rapidly become a significant highlight in the music industry, shining a spotlight on African and urban music talent. This prestigious event not only celebrates the creativity and diversity of artists but also connects audiences with the cultural richness of their music. Here’s an in-depth look at the awards, the nomination process, and what to expect from this year’s event.
The Trace Music Awards (TMA) is an annual event organized by Trace, the global media and entertainment brand known for championing Afro-centric music and culture. The awards aim to recognize outstanding contributions to music, spanning genres like Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, and more. With its wide reach across multiple continents, the TMA serves as a platform for artists to gain international recognition and showcase their talents to diverse audiences.
The nomination process for the Trace Music Awards is a meticulous and inclusive effort designed to ensure fairness and representation. Artists are eligible if their music has been released within the stipulated timeframe and has garnered significant airplay on Trace platforms or digital streams. The awards feature a broad range of categories, including Best Male Artist, Best Female Artist, Best Collaboration, Best Newcomer, and Viewer’s Choice, as well as genre-specific awards like Best Afrobeats Song or Best Hip-Hop Track. A panel of music industry professionals and Trace’s programming team reviews eligible works, shortlisting nominees based on quality, impact, and audience reception, while fans play a crucial role in determining winners in many categories by voting online through Trace’s official platforms.
The Trace Music Awards stand out for their global reach, cultural representation, and fan engagement. With broadcasts in over 160 countries, the awards bring African and urban music to a global audience, connecting people across borders through shared appreciation for artistry. The event celebrates diverse musical styles and honors the cultural roots of artists, promoting a sense of pride and connection among audiences. By involving fans in the voting process, the awards strengthen the bond between artists and their supporters, making it a truly inclusive celebration of music.
The Trace Music Awards have hosted some of the most memorable performances and collaborations, with past winners including African music icons like Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Wizkid, and Yemi Alade, who have used the platform to solidify their status as global music ambassadors. Special performances and tributes have become a hallmark of the event, celebrating the legacies of music legends and fostering unity among artists worldwide. These moments showcase the event’s commitment to blending entertainment with cultural significance.
This year’s Trace Music Awards promises to be even more spectacular, with several new categories introduced to reflect the evolving music landscape. Fans can look forward to electrifying performances from top artists and rising stars, showcasing the best of African and urban music. The red carpet is always a highlight, with artists and celebrities turning heads in stunning outfits that set trends and reflect their unique styles. Additionally, there will be more opportunities for fans to interact with their favorite artists through social media campaigns and live voting, further enhancing the sense of community and engagement that defines the event.
The Trace Music Awards continue to elevate African and urban music on the global stage, celebrating artistry, diversity, and cultural richness. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, the awards offer an exciting glimpse into the vibrant world of music that connects and inspires us all. Stay tuned to Trace’s platforms for updates on nominees, voting, and how to be part of this incredible celebration of music.
more to read
