The awards recognise remarkable achievements in music, considering factors such as album and digital song sales, streaming numbers, radio airplay, touring success and social engagement.
Burna Boy accepted the trophy for the newly-introduced Best Afrobeats Artist, while Rema’s global hit ‘Calm Down’ featuring US singer Selena Gomez was adjudged the Top Afrobeats Song, also a maiden category at the awards.
“Big up, Billboard Music Awards,” Burna Boy said in his acceptance speech. “Big up to everyone involved. This is dedicated to Africa and every artist coming out of Africa now, you get me. This is for you and yeah, man, the future’s bright. You guys are gonna see the vision. This is just the tip of the iceberg but you’re gonna see the whole vision soon.”
For the Nigerian popstars, the Billboard accolades follow successful headline shows as part of their respective world tours. On 14 November, Rema became the latest Afrobeats star to sell out the 20 000-capacity O2 Arena in London, UK, while, Burna Boy stopped by the Toyota Center in Houston, US, as part of a 16-city marathon in support of his new album I Told Them.
Meanwhile, US act Morgan Wallen emerged as the night’s leading recipient with 11 victories, while Taylor Swift claimed the most accolades among female artists, securing 10 prizes, including the prestigious Top Artist Award.
