By Charles Pemu 
Afrobeats is once again taking center stage on the global music scene, as the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) unveil a star-studded list of nominees for the Best Afrobeats category. The lineup reflects the genre’s rapid rise and cultural impact over the past year.
The awards will air live on Monday, September 8, from the UBS Arena in New York, broadcast on MTV (DStv Channel 130) at 00:00 WAT.
Leading the nominations is Nigerian hitmaker Asake, who earns two nods in the Best Afrobeats category for Active with American rapper Travis Scott, and Get It Right with global R&B star Tems collaborations that merge Afrobeats with global pop at record-breaking commercial heights.
Grammy-winning sensation Burna Boy also secures two nominations. His track TaTaTa featuring Travis Scott is up for Best Afrobeats, while Higher competes in the prestigious Video for Good category, showcasing his talent for blending compelling messages with mass appeal.
South African breakout star Tyla continues her meteoric rise with two nominations for PUSH 2 START, recognised in both Best Afrobeats and Best Choreography, underscoring her powerful performance and viral dance influence.
Other nominees include Rema for his smooth, emotive single Baby (Is It A Crime); Afrobeats icon Wizkid for Piece Of My Heart alongside Brent Faiyaz; and MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea for their Afro-Caribbean-infused remix Shake It To The Max (FLY).
This year’s contenders highlight the genre’s diversity, with cross-continental collaborations blending African rhythms, Caribbean energy, and global pop culture. As Afrobeats artists top international charts and sell out arenas worldwide, the 2025 VMAs stand as yet another milestone in Africa’s musical takeover.