Throwback: Past Next Rated Winners at the Headies (2014 – 2024)

The Headies Awards, often regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious music awards, have played a crucial role in recognizing and celebrating emerging talents in the music industry. One of its most anticipated categories, the Next Rated Award, has served as a launchpad for some of the biggest names in Afrobeats and beyond.

Since its inception, the Next Rated Award has signified more than just a trophy; it has been a symbol of an artist’s potential to dominate the industry in the years to come. With past winners like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy eventually becoming global icons, winning this category places an artist in a spotlight that can define their career trajectory.

Over the last decade (2014 – 2024), the Next Rated Award has consistently recognized fresh and promising talents, many of whom have gone on to become key players in the African and global music scene. From Patoranking to Asake, each recipient has had a defining impact on the industry, influencing sounds, trends and even shaping the evolution of Afrobeats.

This retrospective explores the Next Rated winners from 2014 to 2024, examining how their careers evolved after clinching the award and what their impact on the music scene has been.

2014: Patoranking

Patoranking clinched the Next Rated award in 2014, surpassing nominees like Runtown, Yemi Alade, Skales, and Orezi. His singles “Alubarika” and “Girlie O” were instrumental in his rise. Since then, Patoranking has released multiple albums, including God Over Everything (2016) and “Wilmer” (2019), solidifying his position in the Afrobeat and dancehall genres.

2015: Reekado Banks

In a year marked by strong competition, Reekado Banks emerged victorious over Lil Kesh, Kiss Daniel, Korede Bello, and Cynthia Morgan. His hit single “Katapot” showcased his musical prowess. Post-award, Reekado released his debut album “Spotlight” in 2016 and has maintained a consistent presence in the industry.

2016: Mr Eazi

Mr Eazi’s unique blend of Nigerian and Ghanaian sounds earned him the Next Rated title in 2016, ahead of Ycee, Tekno, Humblesmith, and Aramide. His breakout tracks “Skin Tight” and “Hollup” garnered significant attention. Beyond his music, Mr Eazi founded emPawa Africa, an initiative aimed at supporting emerging African artists. ​

2018: Mayorkun

After a hiatus in 2017, the Headies returned in 2018, awarding Mayorkun the Next Rated honor over Maleek Berry, Johnny Drille, Dice Ailes, and Zoro. His debut album, “The Mayor of Lagos,” released the same year, received widespread acclaim. Mayorkun has since delivered hits like “Geng” and “Betty Butter.” ​

2019: Rema

Rema’s meteoric rise in 2019 saw him win the Next Rated award, surpassing Fireboy DML, Joeboy, Zlatan, Lyta, and Victor AD. With a series of successful EPs and tracks like “Iron Man,” which featured on Barack Obama’s summer playlist, Rema has become a global Afrobeat sensation. ​

2021: Omah Lay

Omah Lay became a sensation during the lockdown in 2020 with his “Get Layd” EP and quickly followed it up with “What Have We Done” in the same manner Rema did. He won the Next Rated award deservedly, beating Oxlade, Bella Shmurda, and Tems to it. ​

2022: BNXN (formerly known as Buju)

BNXN, previously known as Buju, secured the Next Rated award in 2022, highlighting his rapid ascent in the Nigerian music scene. His collaborations and solo projects have showcased his versatility and resonated with a broad audience.​

2023: Asake

Asake’s unique style and energetic performances earned him the Next Rated title in 2023. His fusion of Afrobeat and street-hop elements has garnered significant acclaim and a growing fanbase.​

2024 Next Rated Nominees

QING MADI

SHALLIPOPI

ODUMODUBLVCK

AYO MAFF

NASBOI