The 56th NAACP Image Awards nominations are out, and it’s a big moment for African artists! This year’s theme, “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence,” is all about celebrating talent and representation—and African stars are making their mark in a major way. From music to acting, the talent pool is overflowing, and we couldn’t be prouder.
Let’s dive into the African artists who are turning heads at this year’s awards!
Burna Boy
Burna Boy has done it again! The African Giant snagged a nomination for “Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)” alongside Usher for their track Coming Home on Usher’s most recent album, Coming Home. I have to admit, this was well deserved. I’ve had that entire album on repeat since its release!
If you haven’t heard this one yet, it’s soulful, smooth, and everything you’d expect from two legends teaming up. Burna continues to prove that African music is here to stay, and we’re all here for it.
Wizkid
Wizkid is no stranger to international recognition, and this year, he’s in the running for “Outstanding International Song” with his track Piece of My Heart featuring Brent Faiyaz.
This song is nothing short of a masterpiece—Wizkid’s musical flair blended with Brent’s R&B magic gave us a hit and this nomination is proof of that.
Tems
It feels like every time Tems drops a song, the world stops and listens. Her beautiful sample Love Me JeJe has earned her a spot in the “Outstanding International Song” category.
With her unique voice and soulful lyrics, Tems keeps showing us why she’s a force to be reckoned with.
Tyla
Say hello to Tyla, the South African breakout star who’s making waves! She’s up for “Outstanding New Artist,” and honestly, it’s well-deserved.
Tyla’s insane energy and unbelievably brilliant songs are lighting up playlists and TikTok challenges everywhere (RIP to TikTok). This nomination is just the beginning for her, and we’re so excited to see what’s next.
Davido
Davido, the man who’s been at the forefront of the Afrobeats movement for years, is also on the nominee list.
Whether he’s performing on world stages or dropping hit after hit, Davido’s impact on global music is undeniable. This nomination is just another feather in his cap—and we know there are many more to come.
Not Just Music: African Talent Shines in Other Areas on the NAACP Image Awards Nominee List
Music certainly isn’t the only area where African talent is shining. Cynthia Erivo, the incredible British-Nigerian actress, got a nomination for her role in Luther: The Fallen Sun. And Ayo Edebiri, the Nigerian-American star of the hit series The Bear, is also being recognized. These women are making waves and showing the world the power of African excellence on screen.
Why This Matters
The NAACP Image Awards have always been about celebrating diversity and highlighting the contributions of people of color in the arts. Seeing so many African artists and entertainers on this list is a reminder of how powerful our stories and our culture truly are.
So, whether it’s Burna Boy and Wizkid repping African music or Cynthia Erivo killing it in Hollywood, this year’s nominations are a win for the entire Africans worldwide. Let’s keep supporting and celebrating these amazing stars—because their success is our success.
Who are you rooting for at the NAACP Image Awards this year? Let us know keep your eyes glued to our page as we keep you in the loop on all the happenings in African music this year!
