Asake, Burna Boy, Rema, Wizkid, Tyla Front Afrobeats at 2025 MTV VMAs

Afrobeats’ global rise is on full display at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, with a heavyweight slate of contenders in Best Afrobeats underscoring the genre’s momentum.

MTV and CBS unveiled the nominations ahead of the VMAs’ return on Monday, September 8, live from New York’s UBS Arena and airing on MTV (DStv 130) at 00:00 WAT.

Nigerian star Asake leads the Afrobeats charge with two nods—“Active” (with Travis Scott) and “Get It Right” (with Tems)—signalling the sound’s seamless crossover with global pop. Burna Boy also scores two: “TaTaTa” (featuring Travis Scott) for Best Afrobeats and “Higher” in Video for Good, reflecting his mix of impact and mainstream reach. South Africa’s breakout phenom Tyla earns dual nominations for “PUSH 2 START” in Best Afrobeats and Best Choreography, cementing her dance-led appeal.

Rounding out the category:

• Rema — “Baby (Is It A Crime)”
• Wizkid (with Brent Faiyaz) — “Piece Of My Heart”
• MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea — “Shake It To The Max (FLY) [Remix]”

This year’s field showcases Afrobeats’ range and reach—artists topping charts, packing arenas, and reshaping pop culture—while the VMAs provide another stage validating Africa’s sound and its storytellers.