Wizkid, Rema, Tems, Asake Nominated for 2025 American Music Awards: Afrobeats Shines on Global Stage

In a testament to the global dominance of Afrobeats, Nigerian music superstars Wizkid, Rema, Tems, and Asake have secured nominations in the Favourite Afrobeats Artist category at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs). The quartet will compete alongside South African sensation Tyla for the coveted award, marking another milestone in the genre’s meteoric rise. The 51st annual AMAs, hosted by global icon Jennifer Lopez, are set to take place on May 26, 2025, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, with the event airing live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.

The Favourite Afrobeats Artist category, introduced in 2022 to recognize the growing influence of Afrobeats worldwide, has quickly become a highlight of the AMAs. Notably, Wizkid made history as the category’s inaugural winner, cementing his status as a trailblazer in the global music scene. This year’s nominations further underscore Nigeria’s pivotal role in shaping contemporary music, with each artist bringing their unique flair to the genre.

Wizkid, often referred to as the “Starboy,” continues to be a leading figure in Afrobeats, blending infectious rhythms with cross-genre appeal. His nomination reflects his enduring influence, from chart-topping hits like Essence to his recent album Morayo, which has further solidified his global fanbase. Rema, the young prodigy behind the viral hit Calm Down, has become a household name, with his innovative sound resonating across continents. Tems, a Grammy winner known for her soulful voice and genre-defying artistry, has captivated audiences with tracks like Free Mind and her contributions to global hits like Wait for U with Future and Drake. Asake, the “Mr. Money” crooner, has taken the industry by storm with his vibrant fusion of Amapiano, Fuji, and Afrobeats, delivering anthems like Amapiano and Lungu Boy.

The inclusion of Tyla, whose hit Water earned her a Grammy and widespread acclaim, adds a dynamic layer to the competition, showcasing the diversity of African music on the global stage. The AMAs’ recognition of Afrobeats artists highlights the genre’s evolution from a regional sound to a cultural force embraced by millions worldwide.

This year’s AMAs are shaping up to be a star-studded affair, with Kendrick Lamar leading the pack with ten nominations, including Artiste of the Year, Favourite Hip-Hop Artist, and Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Album for The Tortured Poets Department. Other notable nominees include Taylor Swift, Drake, and Beyoncé, ensuring a fiercely competitive night across categories.

The 2025 AMAs will also feature fan-voted categories, allowing music lovers worldwide to support their favorite artists. Voting is open via the AMAs’ official website and social media platforms, giving fans of Wizkid, Rema, Tems, Asake, and Tyla a chance to rally behind their stars.

As the world anticipates the May 26 ceremony, the nominations of these Nigerian artists signal a bright future for Afrobeats. Their presence at the AMAs not only celebrates their individual achievements but also underscores the genre’s transformative impact on global music culture. Whether it’s Wizkid’s genre-blending mastery, Rema’s youthful innovation, Tems’ emotive storytelling, or Asake’s electrifying energy, Afrobeats is proving it’s here to stay—and the world is listening.

For more details on the 2025 American Music Awards, including how to vote, visit the official AMAs website or follow the event’s updates on social media.