Africa is home to a diverse range of musical talents hailing from various regions. These gifted artists have not only won the hearts of millions with their exceptional talents but have also been globally recognized through numerous prestigious awards.
Their contributions to the music industries have not only brought about revolutionary changes but have also served as a motivation for numerous aspiring artists across the continent.
Let’s dive into the list of the top 10 most awarded artists in Africa and discuss each one in detail.
Top 10 Most Awarded artist in Africa
- Wizkid
- Angélique Kidjo
- Davido
- Sarkodie
- Youssou N’Dour
- 2face
- Diamond Platnumz
- Burna Boy
- Femi Kuti
- Tiwa Savage
Most Awarded artist in Africa 2023
Wizkid
Wizkid, born is Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most successful and acclaimed artists. He gained widespread recognition in the music industry with the release of his hit single “Holla at Your Boy” in 2010, and has since become a global sensation. Wizkid has earned a plethora of awards and is acknowledged as one of the most decorated artists in Africa.
The talented afrobeats artist has won several prestigious accolades, including the Grammy Award for his collaboration with Beyoncé on “Brown Skin Girl.” With an impressive collection of awards from MTV Africa Music Awards, BET Awards, and MOBO Awards, among others, Wizkid’s influence has extended far beyond the African continent, making him a musical powerhouse in the international arena.
Angélique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo is a globally recognized icon, known for her artistic excellence and social activism. Her music is a beautiful fusion of various genres, including Afrobeat, jazz, reggae, and traditional African music. With her powerful and soulful voice, combined with her charismatic stage presence, Kidjo has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Her ability to seamlessly blend traditional African music with various genres has earned her numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Kidjo is also a passionate advocate for social causes, and her artistry and advocacy have earned her the prestigious Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award, among other honors.
Davido
David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has made a name for himself not just in the Nigerian music industry but also beyond its borders. He is a talented singer, songwriter, and record producer who rose to stardom in 2011 with his hit debut single “Dami Duro”. Since then, Davido has become one of the most awarded African artists.
With multiple honors at prestigious award shows such as the MTV Africa Music Awards, BET Awards, and The Headies, Davido has proven his excellence in the music industry. He has also made an impact in the international music community, earning him recognition and appreciation for his versatility and broad appeal.
Sarkodie
Sarkodie, a Ghanaian hip-hop artist, has emerged as a prominent figure in the African music scene.
His music style is a unique blend of rap, hiplife, and highlife, which has garnered him a widespread following across the continent. Sarkodie’s debut album “Makye” was released in 2009, and since then, he has continued to produce hit songs, which have earned him numerous accolades.
He is considered one of the most successful and talented artists in Africa. The BET Hip Hop Awards for Best International Flow is among the many awards Sarkodie has won. His contribution to the global hip-hop scene is a clear indication of the diverse talent that Africa has to offer.
Youssou N’Dour
Youssou N’Dour, known as the “King of African Pop,” has captivated audiences not just with his soulful singing but also with his vast array of awards.
As a singer, songwriter, and composer from Senegal, he has been honored with numerous accolades, including the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album. Moreover, he is well-known for his philanthropic work which has earned him recognition outside the realm of music.
2face
Innocent Ujah Idibia, known by his stage name 2Baba, has proven to be a Nigerian music legend. He has consistently received recognition for his contribution to the Nigerian music industry, thanks to several hit singles and albums that have topped music charts over the years.
For several decades, 2Baba has maintained his relevance in the Nigerian music scene, and his outstanding career has earned him multiple awards such as the MTV Africa Music Awards, BET Awards, and MOBO Awards. His impressive achievements have cemented his status as a living legend in Nigerian music.
2Baba’s impact on the Nigerian music industry and his contributions to African music as a whole have earned him a well-deserved place among the most awarded artists in Africa.
Diamond Platnumz
Diamond Platnumz, born Naseeb Abdul Juma, is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in Tanzania. music has transcended Tanzanian borders, earning him international acclaim.
His rise to fame began with his hit single “Number One” in 2010, and he has since released several successful albums and songs. Drawing inspiration from Bongo Flava, Afro-pop, and traditional Tanzanian sounds, Diamond has created a unique style that has earned him a massive fan base.
Diamond Platnumz is the recipient of several prestigious awards from both African and global award ceremonies, such as the MTV Europe Music Awards, MTV Africa Music Awards, and BET Awards, among others. His ability to create music that resonates with a broad audience, both locally and internationally, has led to numerous accolades, making him one of the most awarded artists in Africa.
Burna Boy
Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter has taken the music world by storm with his unique blend of afro-fusion.
He is known for his fusion of Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and contemporary pop, which captures the diverse sounds of Africa. His music is characterized by captivating melodies, infectious rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics that resonate with audiences around the world.
In addition to his Grammy win, Burna Boy has received numerous accolades, including BET Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and Nigeria Entertainment Awards, establishing him as a prominent figure in the Nigerian and global music scenes.
Femi Kuti
Femi Kuti, born Olufela Olufemi Anikulapo Kuti on June 16, 1962, in London, is a Nigerian musician and the eldest son of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti.
Following in the footsteps of his legendary father Fela Kuti, has solidified his place as one of Africa’s most influential musicians. Femi Kuti, the Nigerian Afrobeat artist and saxophonist, has received numerous Grammy nominations and international awards for his contributions to music. His albums “Fight to Win” (2003) and “Day by Day” (2010) have been highly praised and have gained him worldwide recognition.
Taking after his father, Fela Kuti, Femi uses his music to bring attention to social and political issues like corruption and poverty in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. His passion for using music as a means of social change adds great depth to his artistic legacy.
Tiwa Savage
Tiwatope Savage, better known as Tiwa Savage, was born on February 5th, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria. She has earned recognition at The Headies, MTV Africa Music Awards, City People Entertainment Awards, and other prestigious events, cementing her status as a renowned Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress with a string of accolades to her name.
Tiwa Savage’s impact on the afrobeats genre and her ability to transcend borders make her a celebrated figure in the global music arena.
