The Trace Awards 2025 is gearing up for an unforgettable night as the highly anticipated second edition lands in Zanzibar, Tanzania, on February 26, 2025. Ahead of the global event, a star-studded nominee reception took place in Lagos, bringing together music industry giants, award nominees, and corporate sponsors to set the stage for what promises to be a game-changing celebration of African music and culture.
Trace Awards: A Celebration of African Excellence
During the press conference, Sam Onyemelukwe, Managing Director of Trace West Africa, emphasized the importance of the awards in pushing African music to global prominence.
“The Trace Awards is personal to me. We spent years crafting it before launching last year’s first edition. Afrobeats and Amapiano have gone global, and Trace has played a key role in this movement. We couldn’t let outsiders define our culture—we had to stand up for Africa!”
Why Zanzibar? A Beachfront Musical Spectacle
Onyemelukwe also addressed the decision to host the event outside Nigeria, revealing that this year’s show will be a stunning beachside experience rather than a traditional arena-style event.
“Our goal is to unite the continent and showcase Africa’s beauty. Zanzibar is an incredible location, and this year’s show will offer something completely different—an unforgettable visual spectacle by the beach!”
DJs, Directors, and Major Sponsors Speak Up
Renowned DJ Neptune expressed his excitement over DJs finally being recognized at the awards.
“Kudos to Trace for acknowledging DJs this year! I can’t wait for the Zanzibar experience—hopefully, we bring it back home soon.”
Meanwhile, Johnnie Walker’s Portfolio Director, Kemi Longe, highlighted the brand’s commitment to the music industry, announcing their sponsorship of two major categories:
“Johnnie Walker’s ‘Keep Walking’ philosophy is all about progress, innovation, and creativity—values that align with the Trace Awards. That’s why we are proudly sponsoring ‘Song of the Year’ and ‘Best Newcomer.’”
Popular music video director TG Omori, known for his trendsetting visuals, also praised Trace for acknowledging directors in the industry.
“It’s great to see directors finally getting recognized! Next year, I’d love to see a ‘Director of the Year’ category alongside ‘Producer of the Year.’”
Airtel’s Deep Connection to Music
Airtel Nigeria’s Director of Corporate Communications, Adefemi Adenira, reinforced the brand’s deep ties to African music.
“Music is part of Airtel’s DNA. From celebrating African traditions to supporting talent across the continent, music has always been at the heart of our brand.”
Countdown to Zanzibar Begins!
With just weeks to go, the excitement for the 2025 Trace Awards is at an all-time high. From Afrobeats to Amapiano, from DJs to directors, this year’s event is set to be a spectacle like never before, elevating African music to new heights on the global stage.
Who do you think will take home the biggest awards? Drop your predictions below!
