Kenyan singer Bien crowned Trace Awards 2025 Best Eastern Africa Artiste

It was a surreal moment for Kenyan artiste Bien Aime, as he carried the day as the Best Eastern Africa Artiste in the 2025 edition of Trace Awards at gala ceremonys held at the Mora Resort in Zanzibar on Wednesday evening, February 26, 2025.

Bien overcame stiff competition to win his first award as a solo artiste, since Sauti Sol took a sabbatical more than a year ago. The Mbwe Mbwe hit singer has been nominated in the same category with Joshua Baraka (Uganda), Rophnan (Ethiopia), and Tanzanians Harmonize, Marioo, Zuchu, and Nandy.

The event brought together the biggest stars in the industry to celebrate the incredible achievements of African artistes, producers, and performers. This year’s event highlighted the continent’s growing global influence, with Afrobeat, amapiano, and various African music genres taking centre stage.

Bongo sensation Diamond Platnumz continued his global domination, winning Best Global African Artiste, while Ivorian rapper Didi B stood out in the Best Hip Hop Artiste category with his sharp flow and undeniable talent.

Zuchu received a special Zanzibar Award for her outstanding impact on the Tanzanian music scene, with South African duo Titom and Yuppe took home the coveted Song of the Year award for their smash hit Tshwala Bam, a track that ignited dance floors across the globe. Their infectious beat and energetic rhythm made the song a cultural phenomenon.

Nigerian superstar Rema continued his meteoric rise, winning Album of the Year for Heis, a project that seamlessly blends Afrobeat with international sounds, further cementing his place as one of Africa’s most dynamic artists. He also took home the Best Male Artiste award, reaffirming his dominance in the industry.

In the Best Collaboration category, Ivorians Tam Sir and Team Paiya captivated audiences with Coup du Marteau, an electrifying song that combined rhythm, energy, and masterful production. Meanwhile, the Best Music Video award went to the visionary Meji Alabi for his bold direction of Rema’s DND, a visually stunning masterpiece.

South African powerhouse Makhadzi once again proved her exceptional stage presence, winning Best Dancer for her dynamic performances. In the DJ category, DJ Moh Green from Algeria was honoured as Best DJ, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s most influential mixmasters.

Among female artistes, South Africa’s Tyla was named Best Female Artiste, a well-deserved recognition for her originality and unique style that has captivated listeners worldwide. Nigerian gospel singer Mercy Chinwo took home the Best Gospel Artist awaerd, touching hearts with her soulful and uplifting music.

Regional winners included Ivorian singer Josey, who was crowned Best French-Speaking Artiste, and Nigerian sensation Ayra Starr, who continues to dominate West Africa with her powerful voice and hit songs. In Southern Africa, Tyler ICU secured the award, affirming his place as a key player in the region’s music scene.

Chelsea Dinorath of Angola stood out as Best Portuguese-Speaking Artiste for her undeniable talent. Representing Tanzania, Nandy was honoured as Best Tanzanian Artiste for her remarkable contributions to the industry.

Here is the full list of winners:

Song of the Year

Titom & Yuppe – Tshwala Bam (South Africa)

Album of the Year

Rema – Heis (Nigeria)

Best Collaboration

Tamsir & Team Paiya – Coup du Marteau (Ivory Coast)

Best Music Video

Meji Alabi – Rema DND (Nigeria)

Best Dancer

WINNER-Makhadzi (South Africa)

Best DJ

DJ Moh Green – Kelele (Algeria)

Best Hip Hop Artiste

Didi B (Ivory Coast)

Best Global African Artiste

Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

Best Male Artiste

Rema (Nigeria)

Best Female Artiste

Tyla (South Africa)

Best Live Performance

Fally Ipupa (DRC)

Best Producer

P.Priime – MMS (Nigeria)

Best Gospel Artiste

Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)

Best Artiste (Eastern Africa)

Bien (Kenya)

Best Artiste (Western Africa Anglophone)

Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

Best Artiste (Southern Africa)

Tyler ICU (South Africa)

Best Artiste (Francophone Africa)

Josey (Ivory Coast)

Best Artiste (Lusophone Africa)

Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)

Best Artiste (Tanzania)

Nandy (Tanzania)

Best Artist (Europe)

Joe Dwet File (France/Haiti)

Best Artiste (Brazil)

Duquesa (Brazil)

Best Artiste (Caribbean)

Lea Churro (Reunion Island)

Best Artiste (Indian Ocean)

Barth (Reunion)

Lifetime Achievement Award

D’Banj