Davido and Rema Shine at the Trace Awards

Rema and Davido achieved significant success at the Trace Awards in Kigali on Saturday, October 21, 2023.

Davido claimed two prestigious titles, securing Best Male and jointly sharing the Best Collaboration accolade with South Africa’s Musa Keys for their hit, “Unavailable.” Meanwhile, Rema emerged triumphant in the Global African Artist and Song of the Year categories with his chart-topping track, “Calm Down.” Burna Boy’s “Love Damini” clinched the Best Album award, and Vivian Chidid was celebrated as Best Female artist.

In the East African category, Diamond Platnumz clinched the title, while local hero Bruce Melodie from Rwanda dominated the Best Rwandan Artist category. Ivory Coast’s Didi B walked away with the title of Best Artist Africa – Francophone, and fellow countrymen KS Bloom and Tam Sir were recognized as the Best Gospel Artist and Best Producer, respectively. Lisandro Cuxi was honored as the Best Artist Africa – Lusophone.

The illustrious Lifetime Achievement award was bestowed upon Nigeria’s 2Face, commemorating his storied music career. Rutshelle Guillance earned the title of Best Artist – Caribbean, with Goulam prevailing as Best Artist – Indian Ocean, and Dystinct emerging as the Best Artist – North Africa. Yemi Alade’s “Baddie” secured the Best Video prize.

Notably, music producer and philanthropic entrepreneur, Mr. Eazi, received a special ChangeMarker award in recognition of his philanthropic efforts.

International excellence at the Trace Awards

Shifting our focus to the international arena, British rapper Central Cee triumphed as the Best Artist – UK, while Tayc claimed the trophy for Best Artist – France & Belgium. Ludmilla was honored as the Best Artist – Brazil, and Michael Brun was named the Best DJ for Haiti.

The Trace Awards featured a competitive lineup of 26 award categories, attracting artists and performers from over thirty countries across Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe.

Olivier Laouchez, Chairman and Co-Founder of Trace, stated, “Tonight showcased the incredible power and creativity of African and African-origin artists. The nominees, winners, and performers at the Trace Awards have demonstrated why African contemporary music has become a global phenomenon. We extend our congratulations to all of them for showcasing their talent, imagination, and creativity on a global stage.”

The BK Arena resonated with contemporary rhythms and melodies from across Africa and the African diaspora on this remarkable night. The main show was filled with captivating collaborations between artists from various nationalities and music genres.

Trace Awards – A night filled with the stars

Hosted by Afrobeat legend D’Banj and Angolan supermodel Maria Borges, the Trace Awards featured performances and collaborations by over 50 stars, blending Afrobeat with Bongo Flava, Coupé Decalé, Soukouss, Rap, Rai, Gospel, and more. The lineup included renowned artists such as Diamond Platnumz, Davido, Bamby, Benjamin Dube, Blxckie, Bruce Melodie, and many more from diverse backgrounds.

The Trace Awards, orchestrated by the global music powerhouse Trace, marked its 20th anniversary with this inaugural event, celebrating the creativity, talent, and influence of African and Afro-inspired music and artists. The awards underscored the excellence and diversity of Afro-centric music, spanning genres like Afrobeat, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Afro-pop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, Soukous, Gospel, Rap, Rai, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba.

Targeting enthusiasts of African and Afro-inspired music and culture, the Trace Awards were broadcasted live on October 21, 2023, through Trace TV channels, radio, digital platforms, global streaming services, national terrestrial TV, and satellite channels. A 90-minute highlights show is scheduled to air on Trace channels and partner TV stations and platforms starting October 28. The Trace Awards was proudly presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell.

The Trace Awards, presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell, unfolded at the BK Arena in Kigali. For more information about the Awards, you can follow Trace on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or TikTok. Join the conversation using the hashtags #TraceAwardsRwanda2023, #TraceAwardsandFestival, and #TraceAwardsTour.