African Artistes Who Have Won BET Awards : khinkodie's Blog

From Fela to Tems: Celebrating African Excellence at the BET Awards

The BET Awards, established in 2001, have long been a platform for recognizing and celebrating Black excellence in entertainment. While predominantly honoring American artists, the awards have also shined a light on exceptional talent from Africa, creating a dedicated category in 2010: Best International Act: Africa. This category, though retired in 2023, has seen iconic African artists rise to the occasion, paving the way for future generations.

Pioneers and Legends:

The first winner, D'banj in 2011, opened the door for African dominance. Following him were 2Baba and Wizkid, both claiming the award in 2012. South Africa's iconic struggle musician, the late Hugh Masekela, received the Global Impact Award in 2010, a testament to his influence beyond music. These early wins resonated across the continent, inspiring a new generation of artists to reach for international recognition.

A Golden Era of Afrobeats:

The rise of Afrobeats in the late 2010s coincided with a surge in African BET Award wins. Wizkid shared the 2016 award with Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie, solidifying his global appeal. In 2019, the era of Burna Boy began, with the Nigerian artist claiming the award three consecutive years (2019-2021). His electrifying performances and global collaborations cemented his status as a global Afrobeats ambassador.

Breaking Barriers and Beyond:

2022 saw a historic moment with Tems, the Nigerian singer-songwriter, becoming the first woman to win the Best International Act: Africa award. Her genre-bending music and collaborations with Drake and Wizkid further showcased the diversity and power of African female artists.

While the dedicated Africa category no longer exists, the impact of past winners resonates. Nigerian artists like Davido, Ayra Starr, and Asake have continued to garner nominations in various categories, demonstrating the continued influence of African music on the global stage.

Beyond Awards:

The BET Awards serve as a springboard for African artists, exposing them to new audiences and collaborations. From Fela Kuti's enduring legacy to the contemporary success of Burna Boy and Tems, African artists have left their mark on the BET stage. Their achievements pave the way for future generations, demonstrating that international recognition and success are within reach.

Looking Forward:

With the ever-evolving music landscape and the continued rise of African talent, the future is bright for African artists at the BET Awards and beyond. Their music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers. The next generation of African stars are poised to further solidify the continent's place in the global music scene, ensuring that the legacy of BET Award-winning African artists continues to inspire and resonate for years to come.

Below is a list of African Artistes who have won BET AWARDS