The nominations for the prestigious 18th Headies Awards are officially rolling out, and the competition across the continent is heating up. One category commanding major attention this year is the Best West African Artiste of the Year, spotlighting top-tier musical talents across the sub-region who have consistently dominated the airwaves, charts, and digital streaming platforms during the year under review.
Designed to celebrate the most outstanding non-Nigerian artists making global waves, this category features a dynamic lineup of hitmakers from Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal.
The Official Nominees
Here are the artists competing for the crown:
- Black Sherif (Ghana)
- Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
- KiDi (Ghana)
- King Promise (Ghana)
- Moliy (Ghana)
- Wally B. Seck (Senegal)
- Stonebwoy (Ghana)
A Dominant Year for Regional Heavyweights
Ghana takes center stage with five heavyweight contenders in the category. From Stonebwoy’s consistent international impact and King Promise’s chart-topping continental anthems to Black Sherif’s unmistakable vocal grit, Ghanaian sounds remain a vital force across West Africa. The nominations also celebrate the infectious pop rhythms of KiDi and the dynamic, genre-blending artistry of Moliy.
Adding vibrant regional flavor outside Ghana, Ivorian rap sensation Himra secures a nod for his fierce contribution to the francophone hip-hop space, while Senegalese superstar Wally B. Seck represents the rich, soulful sounds of modern Mbalax and West African pop.
With every nominee delivering groundbreaking projects, global tours, and viral hits over the past year, the battle for the 18th Headies plaque in this category promises to be one of the most closely contested races of the night.
Who are you rooting for to take home the Best West African Artiste award at the 18th Headies? Drop your predictions and join the conversation!