A Look Back: Every Next Rated Winner at The Headies Since 2006
The Headies Awards made a thrilling comeback to Lagos this year with its 17th edition, tagged ‘Back to Base’. After two years abroad, the vibrant energy of the ceremony felt right at home again.
Guiding the evening’s festivities were actress and media personality Nancy Isime and broadcasting legend IK Osakioduwa. Together, they kept the night lively with humor, excitement, and undeniable charm.
For nearly two decades, The Headies has remained a trusted platform for celebrating the incredible talent shaping Nigeria’s music journey. One of the event’s biggest highlights? The Next Rated category — a recognition reserved for young voices expected to lead the industry’s future. Many who once claimed this title have gone on to light up global stages.
Here’s a trip down memory lane, revisiting every artist who has earned the Next Rated badge of honor:
2024 – Odumodu Blvck
Merging street grit with lyrical fire, Odumodu Blvck has become the bold voice of Nigeria’s new hip-hop movement.
2023 – Asake
With a sound that mixes Fuji roots and vibrant street-pop beats, Asake took over playlists everywhere with his infectious rhythm.
2022 – Bnxn (formerly Buju)
Armed with a smooth voice and standout collaborations, Bnxn quickly carved out a spot among the brightest in Afrobeats.
2020 – Omah Lay
Omah Lay captured hearts with his deeply emotional songs, offering a fresh, soulful twist to mainstream pop.
2019 – Rema
Right from the start, Rema blurred genre lines, blending Afrobeat with trap and pop influences for a sound all his own.
2017 – Mayorkun
Dubbed the Mayor of Lagos, Mayorkun dominated charts with a steady stream of hit anthems.
2016 – Mr Eazi
With Banku music at the forefront, Mr Eazi fused sounds from Nigeria and Ghana, crafting something truly distinct.
2015 – Reekado Banks
Known for his flexible style and silky delivery, Reekado Banks became a consistent hitmaker.
2014 – Patoranking
Patoranking pushed dancehall into the mainstream spotlight, pairing it with messages that resonated widely.
2013 – Sean Tizzle
With irresistible tracks like “Sho Lee”, Sean Tizzle had listeners dancing non-stop.
2012 – Davido
A natural entertainer, Davido’s energetic performances and catchy hooks propelled him into superstardom early on.
2011 – Wizkid
Wizkid’s smooth style and star quality redefined the Nigerian pop scene and helped put Afrobeats on the world map.
2010 – Skuki
This dynamic duo brought carefree, dance-ready hits that became instant favorites at parties.
2009 – Omawumi
Omawumi’s powerful voice and emotional storytelling quickly placed her among the country’s finest vocalists.
2008 – Wande Coal
Wande Coal set a new standard with his lush vocals and magnetic stage presence.
2007 – Overdose
Representing Nigeria’s hip-hop underground, Overdose earned admiration for his lyrical depth and sharp storytelling.
2006 – Asa
With soul-stirring melodies and reflective lyrics, Asa broke barriers, capturing audiences both at home and abroad.
From Asa’s soulful beginnings to Odumodu Blvck’s gritty rise, the Next Rated award has been a springboard for artists who continue to define and redefine what Nigerian music can be.
