Kigali, Rwanda – In a dazzling night filled with music, talent, and entertainment, the first-ever Trace Awards 2023 celebrated the vibrancy and creativity of African and Afro-inspired music. The star-studded event took place on October 21, 2023, at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda, and drew more than 150 music artists from across the continent.

Hosted by Nigerian music icon D’Banj and Angolan supermodel Maria Borges, the awards ceremony was a remarkable showcase of the incredible diversity of Afro-centric music across various genres, from Afrobeat and Dancehall to Hip Hop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, Soukous, Gospel, Rap, Rai, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba.

A plethora of extraordinary performances captivated the audience, featuring some of the hottest acts in the music industry, including the likes of Davido, Yemi Alade, Black Sherif, Kizz Daniel, and more.

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The list of nominees read like a who’s who of the Afro-music scene, with renowned artists such as Davido, Burna Boy, Blxckie, Yemi Alade, Libianca, and DJ Maphorisa vying for the top honors. Now, let’s unveil the winners of the Trace Awards 2023:

– Best Music Video: Yemi Alade (Nigeria) for “Baddie”

– Best Artist France & Belgium: Tayc (France)

– Best Producer: Tam Sir (Ivory Coast)

– Best Artist North Africa: Dystinct (Morocco)

– Best Artist UK: Central Cee

– Best Artist Indian Ocean: Goulam (Comoros)

– Best Artist Francophone Africa: Didi B (Ivory Coast)

– Best DJ: Michael Brun (Haiti)

– Best Gospel Artist: KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)

– Best Artist The Caribbean: Rutshelle Guillaume (Haiti)

– Best Artist Anglophone Africa: Asake (Nigeria)

– Best Global African Artist: Rema

– Best Newcomer: Roseline Layo (Ivory Coast)

– Best Collaboration: Davido (Nigeria) and Musa Keys (South Africa) for “Unavailable”

– Best Dancer: Robot Boii (South Africa)

– Best Artist Lusophone Africa: Lisandro Cuxi (Cape Verde)

– Changemaker Trace Award: Mr. Eazi (Nigeria)

This landmark event not only celebrated the accomplishments of these incredible artists but also highlighted the ever-growing influence and impact of African and Afro-inspired music on the global stage. 

As the music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, the future of Afro-centric music is brighter than ever. The Trace Awards 2023 served as a testament to the boundless talent and creativity that continues to shape the industry. Congratulations to all the winners!