The Trace Awards 2025, proudly sponsored by Johnnie Walker, took center stage in Zanzibar, delivering an unforgettable night of music, culture, and celebration. As a champion of African creativity and progress, Johnnie Walker honored the continent\u2019s biggest stars, recognizing the relentless passion and artistry shaping the global music scene while leading critical conversations on the future of the music industry at the Trace Summit.<\/p>\n
With electrifying performances, emotional award moments, and an all-star lineup of celebrities, the event truly showcased the rich diversity and talent of African artists. Fans played a crucial role in determining the winners, making the awards a genuine reflection of the people\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n
As a brand that has long celebrated progress, creativity, and those who keep walking, Johnnie Walker proudly presented two of the night\u2019s most coveted awards\u2014Best Song of the Year and Best Newcomer\u2014recognizing the artists who are shaping the future of African music.<\/p>\n
Best Song of the Year (Sponsored by Johnnie Walker) \u2013 Titom & Yuppe \u2013 \u2018Tshwala Bam\u2019 (South Africa)<\/p>\n
Presented by Anne Joy Michira, Marketing & Innovations Director, Diageo South, West & Central Africa and John Musunga, Managing Director Diageo South, West & Central Africa, whose leadership in driving cultural influence and innovation aligns with Johnnie Walker\u2019s unwavering support of African artistry. The winner of the category walked away with a $15,000 cheque and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Brand Home of Johnnie Walker in Scotland.<\/p>\n
Best Newcomer (Sponsored by Johnnie Walker) \u2013 Himra (C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire)<\/p>\n
Presented by Obinna Anyalebechi, Managing Director, Serengeti Breweries Limited, Tanzania, reinforcing Johnnie Walker\u2019s belief in uplifting emerging talent and fueling the next generation of African stars. The winner walked away with a $10,000 cheque and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Brand Home of Johnnie Walker in Scotland.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt Johnnie Walker, we believe in celebrating those who keep walking and pushing boundaries. The Trace Awards are a testament to the relentless passion and creativity of African artists who continue to inspire the world,\u201d said Ifeoma Agu \u2013 Group Head of Culture, Influencer and Advocacy at Diageo Southern, West and Central Africa).<\/p>\n
Beyond the awards, Johnnie Walker\u2019s commitment to the music industry extended to the Trace Summit, where Diageo executives took part in high-impact discussions about the future of African music and its role in economic growth.<\/p>\n
Key Summit Contributions by Diageo Executives:<\/p>\n
Anne Joy Michira spoke at the \u201cPower of African Music in Driving Tourism & Economic Growth\u201d panel emphasizing how brands like Johnnie Walker are investing in cultural influence.<\/p>\n
Obinna Anyalebechi contributed to \u201cThe $1B Question: How to Convince Investors to Invest in African Music?\u201d , reinforcing the need for strategic funding in the creative economy.<\/p>\n
The Trace Awards 2025 brought together Africa\u2019s biggest stars for an unforgettable night of live music. Burna Boy, Rema, Tems, Diamond Platnumz, Tyla, Asake, and Ayra Starr lit up the stage with high-energy performances that left fans in awe.<\/p>\n
Following the milestone Johnnie Walker awards, the ceremony continued to recognize outstanding talent across various categories:<\/p>\n
Album of the Year \u2013 Rema \u2013 Heis
\nBest Collaboration \u2013 Tamsir & Team Paiya \u2013 \u2018Coup du Marteau\u2019 (Ivory Coast)
\nBest DJ \u2013 DJ Moh Green (Algeria)
\nBest Music Video \u2013 Meji Alabi \u2013 Rema \u2018DND\u2019 (Nigeria)
\nBest Hip Hop Artist \u2013 Didi B (Ivory Coast)
\nBest Male Artist \u2013 Rema (Nigeria)
\nBest Female Artist \u2013 Tyla (South Africa)
\nBest Live Performance \u2013 Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
\nBest Producer \u2013 P.Priime \u2013 \u2018MMS\u2019 (Nigeria)
\nBest Dancer \u2013 Makhadzi South Africa
\nBest Global Artist \u2013 Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
\nBest Artist (Southern Africa) \u2013 Tyler ICU (South Africa)<\/p>\n
The Trace Awards 2025, sponsored by Johnnie Walker, were more than a celebration\u2014they were a movement, amplifying the voices of artists shaping the future of music. With Johnnie Walker leading the charge in elevating African talent, rewarding excellence, and supporting the industry through key investments, the brand continues to champion those who Keep Walking.<\/p>\n
Stay tuned for more exclusive content from the Trace Awards 2025, @johhniewalkerafrica on Instagram where African music continues to shine on the global stage.<\/p>\n