Full list of nominees for the 2026 Headies Awards

The Headies is bringing the heat to Canada, and the 2026 nominations have just dropped—showcasing the absolute best of African music across an impressive range of categories. From Afrobeats heavyweights to rising stars carving out their lanes, this year’s lineup reflects the vibrant diversity and evolution of the continent’s sound.

The Album of the Year category is stacked with powerhouse projects, including Wizkid’s Morayo, Burna Boy’s No Sign of Weakness, Omah Lay’s Clarity of Mind, and Tiwa Savage’s This One Is Personal. Odumodublvck’s The Machine Is Coming, Erigga’s G.O.A.T, and Fola’s Catharsis round out a competitive field that spans multiple genres and creative visions. Meanwhile, the Afrobeats Album of the Year sees Davido’s 5ive, BNXN’s Captain, and Adekunle Gold’s Fuji going head-to-head with the previously mentioned albums from Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Omah Lay.

Song of the Year recognition goes to standout singles like “MMS” by Asake and Wizkid, “With You” by Davido and Omah Lay, and Ayra Starr’s “Hot Body.” The Afrobeats Single category features Rema’s “Fun,” Shallipopi’s “Laho,” and Burna Boy’s “Bundle by Bundle,” among others. On the rap front, Odumodublvck’s “2:02PM in London,” Blaqbonez’s “ACL,” and tracks from Dremo, Moshood, and Zhus Jdo are battling for Best Rap Single honors. The Best Female Artist race features Ayra Starr, Tems, Tiwa Savage, Qing Madi, Sewa, and Teni, while Best Male Artist pits Wizkid, Burna Boy, Asake, Rema, Adekunle Gold, Fola, and Mavo against each other.

Fresh talent gets major spotlight too. The Next Rated category showcases Fido, Fola, Llona, Mavo, and Shoday—all artists who’ve made serious waves this past year. The Rookie of the Year nods go to Amma, Danpapa GTA, Firstklaz, Kidd Carder, NO11, Priesst, and OG Abbah. Beyond the Nigerian scene, the awards celebrate continental excellence with Best Southern African Artist nominees including Tyla, Uncle Waffles, DJ Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small, while Best West African Artist features Black Sherif, King Promise, KiDi, Stonebwoy, and Moliy. Producer of the Year sees Magicsticks, P. Priime, Ragee, Sarz, and Tempoe recognized for their sonic contributions, and the Best Performer (Live) category honors unforgettable live moments from Asake’s Red Bull Symphonic, Ayra Starr’s Global Citizen Festival set, Adekunle Gold’s National Theatre performance, Johnny Drille’s Johnny’s Room Live 6, and Ruger’s Indigo at The O2 show.

With categories spanning R&B, alternative music, gospel, street-hop, collaborations, and more, the 2026 Headies nominations paint a comprehensive picture of African music’s current moment—honoring both established legends and the next generation pushing boundaries. As anticipation builds toward the Canada ceremony, one thing is certain: African music continues to dominate globally, and these artists are leading the charge.

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