Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Davido and Rema were the big winners at the Trace Awards in Kigali, Rwanda, held on Saturday, October 21, 2023. The awards celebrated African and Afro-inspired music and artists from over 30 countries across Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe.
Davido claimed the titles of Best Male and shared the Best Collaboration award with South Africa’s Musa Keys for their track “Unavailable.” Rema earned recognition in the Global African Artist and Song of the Year categories for his song “Calm Down.” Additionally, Burna Boy’s “Love Damini” was honored as the Best Album, and Vivian Chidid received the Best Female award.
Several other artists from different regions also received accolades at the ceremony:
- Diamond Platnumz secured the title of Best Artist – East Africa.
- Rwandan artist Bruce Melodie was recognized as the Best Rwandan Artist.
- Didi B was named Best Artist Africa – Francophone, and fellow countrymen KS Bloom and Tam Sir received awards in the Best Gospel Artist and Best Producer categories, respectively.
- Lisandro Cuxi was honored as Best Artist Africa – Lusophone.
- Nigerian musician 2Face was presented with a Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of his illustrious career.
- Rutshelle Guillance was declared the Best Artist – Caribbean, while Goulam claimed the Best Artist – Indian Ocean title, and Dystinct was honored as the Best Artist – North Africa.
- Yemi Alade’s hit track “Baddie” was awarded the Best Video.
- Music maker and entrepreneur Mr. Eazi received the special ChangeMarker award for his philanthropic work.
The ceremony, held at the BK Arena, featured electrifying performances and collaborations between more than 50 artists from different nationalities and music genres. Fronted by Afrobeat legend D’Banj and Angolan supermodel Maria Borges, the Trace Awards showcased a fusion of Afrobeat, Bongo Flava, Coupé Decalé, Soukouss, Rap, Rai, Gospel, and more.
Olivier Laouchez, Chairman and Co-Founder of Trace, commended the talent and creativity of African and African-origin artists, highlighting the growing global influence of African contemporary music. The Trace Awards marked the 20th anniversary of Trace, a global music powerhouse and Afro-music tastemaker.
The event was broadcast live on October 21, 2023, on Trace TV channels, radio and digital platforms, and various global streaming platforms. A 90-minute highlights show is set to air on Trace channels and partner TV stations and platforms from October 28. The Trace Awards were presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell.
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