The 17th Headies Awards is set to recognize the most electrifying partnerships in Nigerian music, with the Best Collaboration category showcasing dynamic duos and groups that have pushed creative boundaries. From soulful harmonies to hard-hitting street anthems, this year’s nominees have defined the sound of 2024, solidifying their place in Nigeria’s ever-evolving music landscape.
Last year, Spyro and Tiwa Savage took home the award for their chart-topping remix of “Who’s Your Guy.” The competition was fierce, with top contenders like Asake and Burna Boy’s “Sungba Remix” and BNXN’s “Gwagwalada” making strong cases. As anticipation builds for the April 5, 2025 ceremony, fans and critics alike are eager to see which of these groundbreaking collaborations will emerge victorious this year.
The Nominees: A Celebration of Artistic Synergy
Egwu – Chike ft. Mohbad
A tribute to the late Mohbad, “Egwu” is a powerful blend of Chike’s soulful melodies and Mohbad’s emotive rap, making it one of the most heartfelt songs of the year. Released in 2024, the song has resonated deeply with fans, serving as both a celebration of Mohbad’s legacy and a reminder of the fragility of life. Its poignant message and the undeniable chemistry between both artists make it a strong contender for Best Collaboration at the Headies.
Blood on the Dance Floor – Odumodublvck ft. Bloody Civilian & Wale
Odumodublvck, Bloody Civilian, and American rapper Wale combined forces to create “Blood on the Dance Floor”, a genre-blending anthem that became a staple of the 2023 Detty December season. The track’s fusion of Afrobeats and rap, combined with its powerful lyrics, helped it dominate the charts for 13 consecutive weeks. Its success showcases the global reach of Nigerian music and cements its place as a cultural force.
Cast – Shallipopi ft. Odumodublvck
Shallipopi and Odumodublvck’s collaboration on “Cast” delivered an Afrobeat hit with pulsating rhythms and compelling storytelling. The track’s success on the TurnTable Top 100 highlights its massive appeal. However, controversy arose over Odumodublvck’s lyric, “If she no f**k, if she no suck, who go pay for her wig and handbag?”—which sparked industry backlash. Despite this, the song remains a club favorite, keeping fans dancing across Nigeria.
IDK – Wizkid ft. Zlatan
Wizkid and Zlatan’s “IDK” blended Afrobeats with street-hop, creating a fusion that resonated with diverse audiences. Released in Wizkid’s SoundMan Vol. 2 EP, the song’s energetic delivery and infectious beat quickly propelled it to hit status. The synergy between Wizkid’s smooth vocals and Zlatan’s lively rap flow has made this track one of the most celebrated collaborations of the year.
Twe Twe (Remix) – Kizz Daniel ft. Davido
Whenever Kizz Daniel and Davido join forces, magic happens, and the “Twe Twe Remix” was no exception. Following their previous hits like “Woju Remix” and “One Ticket”, their latest collaboration elevated the already popular “Twe Twe” to even greater heights. The remix topped the charts and received high praise from fans, with an electrifying music video directed by TG Omori further cementing its success.
Ole – Qing Madi ft. BNXN
Qing Madi’s collaboration with BNXN on “Ole” delivered an Afrobeats gem exploring themes of forbidden love. The track’s irresistible beats and catchy hooks helped it gain massive traction, placing Qing Madi firmly in the spotlight. Beyond the song’s success, Qing Madi’s rise has been meteoric—she was named Spotify Africa’s Equal Ambassador in 2023 and later released her debut solo album, I’m the Blueprint, in 2025.
Emotions – Tiwa Savage ft. Aṣa
In one of the most unexpected but celebrated collaborations of the year, Tiwa Savage and Aṣa joined forces for “Emotions”, a soul-stirring ballad from Tiwa’s 2024 album, Water & Garri. Their unique vocal styles blended seamlessly to create a track that has been critically acclaimed for its depth and musicality. Featured alongside Olamide, Ayra Starr, and Black Sherif, Water & Garri showcased Tiwa’s ability to transcend genres and deliver compelling artistry.
Who Will Take the Crown?
The Best Collaboration category at the 17th Headies Awards is a testament to the power of musical partnerships in shaping Nigeria’s music industry. With each nominee bringing a unique flavor and impact to the scene, the race for the award is tighter than ever.
As fans eagerly await the awards night, one thing is certain—collaborations continue to be a driving force in Nigerian music, creating unforgettable moments and chart-topping hits. Whether it’s the emotional tribute of “Egwu”, the global appeal of “Blood on the Dance Floor”, or the raw energy of “Twe Twe Remix”, this year’s nominees have set new standards for artistic excellence.
The question remains: Who will take home the coveted award on April 5, 2025?
