Established in 2001 by the Black Entertainment Television network, the BET Award Ceremony is a celebration of African American talent. The ceremony’s nominations reflect an abundance of creative expression and black excellence across music, television, film and sports.
These prestigious awards nominations are selected by BET’s Voting Academy, which includes an esteemed group of entertainment professionals in the fields of music, television, film, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, influencers, and creative arts.
With Africa being a continent that boasts enormous talent, it is no surprise musicians from all across the diaspora have been nominated for these prestigious awards over the years. This year’s ceremony sees five African artist nominations in various categories including “Best International Act” and “Best New Artist.” These artists are: Major League DJz, TEMS, Fireboy DML, Fally Ipupa and Wizkid.
Here is everything you need to know about this year’s African nominations.
Major League DJz
South Africa’s very own Amapiano hit-makers, Major League DJz are nominated for the “Best International for this year’s ceremony. Twins Bandile and Banele’s distinctive DJing style and musicality has caught the attention of many globally. This can be partially attributed to their popular YouTube segment “Balcony Mix.”
The duo recently signed to Atlantic Records, an American record label that is home to big music industry names such as Cardi B and Jack Harlow.
TEMS
From releasing chart-topping hits, to being featured in Drake’s platinum selling studio album “Certified Lover Boy”, singer-songwriter TEMS has been a force to be reckoned with. Following her debut in 2019, the songbird has released a slew of inspirational songs including hit-single, “Free Your Mind.”
TEMS’ winning streak has earned her three BET nominations propelled by the release of her EP, “If Orange Was A Place”, as well as featuring in Wizkid’s “Essence”, along with Justin Bieber. She is nominated for “Best New Artist”, “Best Collaboration” and “Best International Act.”
Fireboy DML
Fireboy DML’s contribution to the music industry quickly caught the eye of many music enthusiasts, including legendary Nigerian musician, Olamide who eventually signed the rising star to his YBNL Nation record label. The deal spawned Fireboy’s debut studio album “Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps” and earned the artist a nomination for “Song of the Year” at the 2020 Soundcity MVP Awards Festival for his breakout hit single “Jealous.”
Following the release of his sophomore album “Apollo”, which rose to fourteenth place on Billboard’s World Albums chart, Fireboy’s fan base increased exponentially. This has earned him “Best International Act” nomination at the BET Awards 2022.
Fally Ipupa
Congolese veteran singer-songwriter, dancer, philanthropist, guitarist, and producer Fally Ipupa has been nominated for “Best International Act” at this year’s BET Awards. The 44-year-old icon released his solo debut album in 2006. Fally has since bagged multiple nominations and awards including a Grammy nomination in 2009, the MTV Africa Award for best video, and artist of the year.
Fally Ipupa is no stranger to the BET Awards. The veteran has been nominated 3 times before for the BET Best International Act, and he has won the award twice. This is Fally’s 4th “Best International Act” nomination.
Wizkid
African superstar Wizkid does not need an introduction. After his album release Made In Lagos, the Nigerian bagged multiple nominations. These were propelled by the release of his debut album, “Made In Lagos.”
His collaboration with Tems on “Essence”, became a global hit. He later remixed the song with Tems and Justin Bieber – which has earned him the “Best Collaboration” nomination. Wizkid is also nominated for the “Best Male R&B/Pop Artist.”
The BET Award ceremony will be hosted be hosted by award-winning actress, writer, director and philanthropist, Taraji P. Henson. The show will be aired on DSTV channel 129 at 8PM Central African Time.
