The Billboard Music Awards has introduced nine new awards this year, reflecting the global influence of various music genres.
Among the new categories unveiled, the “Top Afrobeats Artist” and “Top Afrobeats Song” are of particular significance. These categories celebrate the rising prominence of Afrobeats on the world stage.
The maiden nominees for the “Top Afrobeats Artist” include an impressive lineup of Nigerian talents, featuring Rema, Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems. Also in the running is the Cameroonian diva, Libianca, showcasing the broad scope of African music’s influence.
The “Top Afrobeats Song” category is equally exciting, with a collection of outstanding tracks. Nominees in this category span various artists and collaborations, encompassing Rema’s ‘Calm Down’ featuring Selena Gomez, Ayra Starr’s ‘Rush,’ Oxlade’s ‘Ku Lo Sa,’ Libianca’s ‘People,’ and Victony’s ‘Soweto’ featuring Rema and Don Toliver.
Notably, Rema’s ‘Calm Down’ with Selena Gomez has also received nominations in additional categories, including “Top Billboard Collaboration,” “Top Billboard Excl. U.S. Song,” “Top Billboard Global 200 Song,” and “Top Radio Song,” totaling his nominations to seven.
In terms of overall nominations, American superstar Taylor Swift leads the pack with an impressive 20 nominations, spanning categories like “Top Artist,” “Top Female Artist,” “Top Billboard 200 Artist,” and “Top Hot 100 Artist.”
The 2023 Billboard Music Awards are slated for Sunday, November 19, and will be presented by Marriott Bonvoy.