Despite captivating performances and nominations, Nigerian artists Burna Boy, Asake, and Rema failed to secure wins at the 2024 BRIT Awards, held at the O2 Arena on Saturday night.
Both Burna Boy and Asake were nominated in the “Best International Act of the Year” category, but ultimately lost to American singer SZA. Similarly, Rema’s hit song “Calm Down” missed out on the “Best International Song of the Year” award, which went to Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers.”
However, Rema’s night wasn’t without a highlight. He concluded the ceremony with an energetic performance of “Calm Down,” becoming only the second African artist to grace the BRITs stage after Burna Boy’s performance in 2019.
Despite the losses for the Afrobeats stars, the night belonged to British singer Raye, who broke the record for most wins in a single year at the BRITs. She took home a staggering six awards, including “Best New Artist,” “Artist of the Year,” “Song of the Year,” “Album of the Year,” “Best R&B Act,” and “Songwriter of the Year.”
The BRIT Awards, presented by the British Phonographic Industry, celebrate and recognize outstanding achievements in British and international music.