The inaugural Trace Awards 2023 illuminated the city of Kigali, Rwanda, on October 21, 2023, in a dazzling celebration of music, culture, and creativity.
This milestone event, organized in honor of Trace’s 20th anniversary, brought together a constellation of musical talents, executives, media luminaries, stakeholders, and adoring fans from across the globe. Nigerian artistes took center stage among the myriad of stars, shining brighter than ever before.
Davido, Yemi Alade, and ODUDMODUBLVCK graced the stage with electrifying performances that ignited the night. But the real spectacle of the evening unfolded as the winners of the prestigious awards were revealed, leaving the world in awe of the talent Nigeria has to offer.
Davido, a trailblazer in the African music scene, has consistently wowed audiences with his impeccable artistry. His fourth album, ‘Timeless,’ broke records and received widespread acclaim. It came as no surprise that he walked away with the coveted award for Best African Male.
Rema’s hit single, ‘Calm Down,’ had fans worldwide captivated with its infectious beats and meaningful lyrics. This musical masterpiece earned him the Song of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of Nigeria’s most promising young talents.
The full list of winners below shows the diversity and richness of talent from across Africa;
Album of the Year: ‘Love Damini’ – Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Song of the Year: ‘Calm Down’ – Rema (Nigeria)
Best Music Video: ‘Baddie’ – Yemi Alade (Nigeria)
Best Male: Davido (Nigeria)
Best Female: Viviane Chidid (Senegal)
Best Collaboration: ‘Unavailable’ – Davido (Nigeria) with Musa Keys (South Africa)
Best Newcomer: Roseline Layo (Ivory Coast)
Best DJ: Michael Brun (Haiti)
Best Producer: Tam Sir (Ivory Coast)
Best Gospel Artist: KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)
Best Live: Fally Ipupa (DRC)
Best Artist Africa – Anglophone: Asake (Nigeria)
Best Artist Africa – Francophone: Didi B (Ivory Coast)
Best Artist Africa – Lusophone: Lisandro Cuxi (Cape Verde)
Best Artist – Rwanda: Bruce Melodie (Rwanda)
Best Artist – East Africa: Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Best Artist – France & Belgium: Tayc (France)
Best Artist – UK: Central Cee (UK)
Best Artist – The Caribbean: Rutshelle Guillaume (Haiti)
Best Artist – Indian Ocean: Goulam (Comoros)
Best Artist – Brazil: Ludmilla (Brazil)
Best Artist – North Africa: Dystinct (Morocco)
