Nigerian music stars are taking centre stage at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), with big names like Burna Boy, Tems, Rema, Asake, Ayra Starr, and Wizkid earning major nominations. The global spotlight on Afrobeats continues to grow, and this year’s VMAs are proof that the genre is no longer just a wave—it’s a full-blown movement.
In the “Best Afrobeats” category, Nigerian songs dominate. Asake’s collaboration with American rapper Travis Scott on Active, Rema’s Baby (Is It A Crime), and Tems’ Get It Right featuring Asake are among the standout nominees. Burna Boy also lands a nod for TaTaTa with Travis Scott, while Wizkid’s joint track with Brent Faiyaz, Piece of My Heart, joins the list.
It’s not just Nigerian artists shining. South Africa’s Tyla grabbed attention with a nomination for “Best Choreography” thanks to her viral hit Push 2 Start. Ghana’s Moliy and Jamaican acts like Skillibeng, Shenseea, and Silent Addy are also in the running.
Burna Boy picked up a second nomination in the “Video for Good” category with Higher, adding to his growing international recognition. Ayra Starr, who’s quickly becoming a global favourite, earned a nod for “MTV PUSH Performance of the Year” with Last Heartbreak Song.
Outside Afrobeats, Lady Gaga leads the overall nominations with 12, followed closely by Bruno Mars and Kendrick Lamar.
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