In case you forgot (because honestly, we didn’t), the organisers shook the country back in the day when they announced that the 15th and 16th editions would be taking place in Atlanta, Georgia. Omo, they carried the awards and japa’d, leaving us at home with nothing but hope and YouTube streams. But in 2024, after much online dragging, prayers, and maybe small fasting, the Headies organisers finally decided to do the right thing and bring the magic back home.
This 17th edition wasn’t just a comeback — it was a full-blown celebration of everything that makes our music culture unmatched. And when we say the stars showed up and showed out? We mean it! From OBO himself, Davido, to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to kings and queens of the industry like Kunle Remi, Waje, Kiekie, AY, MI Abaga, Nasboi, Qing Madi, Akin Faminu, Enioluwa, Juma Jux, and Priscy — the carpet was basically on fire with vibes and steeze, underlining the night’s wide appeal across entertainment, governance, and fashion.
Before we dive into the festivities, let’s run a quick history check… The Headies, originally known as the Hip Hop World Awards, was founded in 2006 by Hip Hop World Magazine, and it has been the place where legends collect their badges before blowing globally. If you are winning a Headies, just know you are no longer a local champion, you are well on your way to world domination.
This year, the organisers made another piece of history by handing the full hosting reins to a woman for the first time ever, and who better than the remarkable own Nancy Isime? She held it down solo on the big stage and did it effortlessly. Meanwhile, the red carpet scene, hosted by the ever-charismatic Enioluwa, was dripping with fashion, paparazzi flashes, and enough main character energy to last till December.
The performances throughout the night showcased the diversity and dynamism of African music. Odumodu Blvck a.k.a Big Kala,, stormed the stage with his usual heavy presence; Blaqbonez, a.k.a Emeka Must Shine (and yes, he must), kept the vibe on 100; while Ayo Maff, Qing Madi, and Juma Jux each sprinkled their own flavor into the night. Even the pre-party didn’t slack — DJ Obi turned it into a mini rave and kept spirits high before the main ceremony began.
When it was time for the awards, the tension was thick enough to cut with a butter knife. New kids and OGs alike grabbed trophies, reminding us why the industry is never short of icons-in-the-making. Odumodublvck, the man that has had Nigeria in a chokehold with songs like “Wotowoto Seasoning” and “Dog Eat Dog,” bagged the Next Rated award and is rumored to be cruising home with a Bentley. We love a win for the Big Kala!
Davido added to his impressive award record, taking home “Artiste of the Year” and “Digital Artiste of the Year.” Qing Madi’s “Vision” earned “Songwriter of the Year,” reflecting the growing spotlight on emerging talents. The late Mohbad was honored posthumously with the “Best Street-Hop Artiste” award for “Ask About Me.” Additionally, “Egwu” by Chike and Mohbad won the “Headies Viewers’ Choice” award.
Other notable wins included Juma Jux as Best East African Artiste of the Year, Liya’s “I’m Done” for Best Vocal Performance (Female), and the soundtrack from the movie “A Tribe Called Judah” receiving Soundtrack of the Year Asake’s “Lonely at the Top,” a song that dominated charts and playlists, was awarded Song of the Year because, let’s be honest, who else deserves it more? That song lived rent-free in all our heads last year.
Beyond the accolades, the night reflected the resilience and growing international influence of Nigerian and African music. It also underlined The Headies’ intention to strike a balance between celebrating local success and expanding to global audiences.
As The Headies gears up for its 18th edition, scheduled for December 2025, there is a renewed sense of anticipation for how Nigeria’s music industry will continue to evolve, both at home and on the world stage.
