BET Awards 2025: African Stars Shine Bright Among Global Nominees
The BET Awards 2025 nominees have been officially announced, spotlighting a dynamic and diverse lineup of artists from around the globe. This year’s list reflects the growing influence of African talent on the international stage, with several standout names from the continent earning well-deserved recognition.
Among the African nominees are music powerhouses Burna Boy, Tems, Rema, and Tyla—all continuing to make waves beyond their home countries. Rising stars such as Ayra Starr, Black Sherif, Shallipopi, Shaboozey, Odeal, and Maglera Doe Boy also secured spots, underscoring the continent’s rich and evolving musical landscape.
South Africa and East Africa are well represented too, with Uncle Waffles, Dlala Thukzin, Abigail Chams, and the DJ duo TxC recognized for their cultural impact and contributions to global music.
Among this year’s African contenders, Ayra Starr stands out with an impressive three nominations:
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
- Best New Artist
- Best International Act
Her inclusion in multiple categories marks a major milestone in her career and cements her status as one of Africa’s most exciting young talents.
Tems also continues her rise as a force in global music. She received two nominations in the ‘BET Her’ category for her emotive singles “Burning” and “Hold On”—both from her highly anticipated debut album Born In The Wild.
The ‘Best New International Act’ category highlights Africa’s emerging voices, with nominations going to Shallipopi, Odeal, Maglera Doe Boy, Abigail Chams, and Dlala Thukzin. These rising stars reflect the continent’s dynamic creativity and innovation in sound.
Beyond music, the BET Awards continue to honor excellence in film and television. Acclaimed actress Cynthia Erivo earned two nominations—Best Actress and BET Her, the latter for her emotional duet “Defying Gravity” with Ariana Grande.
On the U.S. front, Kendrick Lamar leads the 2025 nominations with ten nods. Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla each follow with six, while Metro Boomin picks up five. SZA and The Weeknd each score four nominations, reinforcing their continued dominance in R&B and pop.
Monde Twala, a senior BET executive, spoke on this year’s nominations, reaffirming BET’s commitment to uplifting Black excellence around the world.
“This year’s nominees reflect a powerful global movement,” Twala said. “African artists are shaping culture and pushing creative boundaries—this is their moment.”
Chosen by the BET Voting Academy—composed of entertainment industry professionals and media influencers—this year’s nominations celebrate creativity, cultural impact, and innovation across music, film, and television.
As anticipation builds, the 2025 BET Awards promise to be a thrilling celebration of global Black artistry and achievement.
