Each year, the MTV VMA nominations offer a snapshot of the global music zeitgeist, and for the past few years, the Best Afrobeats category has evolved from a welcome addition into a fierce battleground of titans. This year is no exception. The list is a testament to the genre’s unstoppable global dominance, showcasing a potent mix of established royalty, new-age superstars, and game-changing collaborations. As the votes are tallied and the online debates rage, we’re unpacking the narratives, power plays, and pure artistry within the Best Afrobeats VMA nominees 2025.
The Heavyweights: A Three-Way Race?
At first glance, the race appears to be a three-way contest between the year’s double nominees, each representing a different facet of the genre’s power.
First, there’s Asake. With two nods in this category for “Active” with Travis Scott and “Get It Right” with Tems, he represents the raw, street-level energy that has become a global phenomenon. Then you have Burna Boy, the established giant. His nomination for “TaTaTa” (also with Travis Scott) is bolstered by a prestigious second nod for “Higher” in the Video for Good category, reinforcing his status as both a hitmaker and a conscious artist. Finally, there’s Tyla. The South African pop sensation continues her meteoric rise with “PUSH 2 START,” which also earned a nomination for Best Choreography, highlighting her multi-disciplinary artistry and viral appeal.
The Tea: Unpacking the Politics and Power Plays
Beyond the names, the nominations list tells a deeper story. The most obvious talking point is the Travis Scott effect. With both Burna Boy and Asake’s nominations featuring the US rap superstar, it begs the question: is a high-profile American feature now the prerequisite for VMA recognition? For many online, it’s a point of debate—a sign of global collaboration for some, a potential creative crutch for others.
The list does, however, showcase an impressive genre spectrum. The inclusion of MOLIY’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean fusion on “Shake It To The Max (FLY) (Remix)” and Wizkid’s soulful, R&B-leaning “Piece Of My Heart” with Brent Faiyaz proves the category isn’t monolithic. It celebrates the rich diversity of sounds currently flourishing under the Afrobeats umbrella. Of course, with only a few slots, the public conversation inevitably turned to notable omissions, a testament to just how many incredible artists are currently operating at the top of their game.
The Icons and Dark Horses
The category is rounded out by a trio of undeniable powerhouses. Rema’s nomination for the smooth, emotionally charged “Baby (Is It A Crime)” feels essential, honouring one of the scene’s most consistent global ambassadors. The Tems and Asake link-up on “Get It Right” is a pure Nigerian superpower collaboration that cannot be counted out. And of course, Wizkid’s presence lends an air of iconic sophistication to the entire list.
Who Takes Home the Moon Person?
This year’s race is perhaps the most difficult to predict yet, which is a victory in itself. Will voters favour the undeniable pop polish and viral power of Tyla, the established prestige of Burna Boy, or the raw, authentic energy of Asake? Each nominee makes a compelling case.
Regardless of who walks away with the Moon Person on September 8th, the list itself is the ultimate validation. It’s a powerful snapshot of a genre operating at the absolute peak of its global influence, with its kings, queens, and rising stars all rightfully demanding their place in the pop pantheon.
