The ‘Recording of the Year‘ category at ‘The Headies’ is always a highly anticipated one, celebrating the finest in songwriting, production, and delivery. While the organizers of the Headies may consider those three qualities alone, the winner of that category can brag about dropping the ultimate jam of the year.
Soweto, the last winner of the award, is a remarkable collaboration between Nigerian artist Victony and producer Tempo. Its blend of Afrobeat rhythms, smooth vocals, and infectious hooks propelled it into global prominence, and there was no argument when it earned Recording of the Year award at the 2023 Headies.
This time around, the competition is fierce, with a lineup of tracks that have dominated the music scene and captured the hearts of listeners. The nominees for 2024 reflect the diverse sounds and talents shaping the Nigerian music industry today.
Among the contenders is Seyi Vibez with his hit track “Different Pattern,” a song that was the most streamed on Spotify Wrapped 2024. Taken from his Nahamciaga EP, which also features tracks like “Cana,” “Today,” and “Shazam,”. Seyi Vibez’s “Different Pattern” isn’t just any chart-topping song, it was an anthem in 2024. The track, with its infectious hooks, silky melodies, and Afrobeat percussion, is a masterclass in its distinctive sound. The song is also the most streamed song of 2024 on Apple Music Nigeria.
Tems, a 2x Grammy-winning artist, has earned a Recording of the Year nomination for her powerful single “Burning” from her 2024 album Born in the Wild. The track showcases her unmatched vocals and profound lyrics, blending Afro-fusion sounds with a deeply emotional narrative of love, longing, and self-reflection. “Burning” further cements Tems as a global force in music. Known for her hit collaborations with artists like Drake, Future, and Wizkid, she continues to push boundaries with each release.
Grammy-winning artist, Burna Boy, has secured his spot with “Higher,” a track that also earned him a nomination for “Best African Music Performance” at the 2025 Grammy Awards. Though he lost to Tems’ “Love Me Jeje,” “Higher” remains a standout. The music video, shot in Burna Boy’s hometown of Port Harcourt, was an inspiring display of his philanthropy and connection to his roots.
Ayra Starr, alongside Giveon, enters the competition with the emotional track “Last Heartbreak Song.” Featured on Ayra’s second album “The Year I Turned 21”, this collaboration with the American artist showcases Ayra’s ability to blend African and international sounds, further cementing her place as one of the industry’s brightest stars.
Finally, Nigerian producer Sarz and artist Lojay dropped “Billions,” a 2024 track that’s already a hit on Afrobeat playlists. With Sarz’s signature beats and Lojay’s smooth vocals, the song combines catchy melodies with uplifting lyrics about ambition and success.
The track’s infectious rhythm and hooks make it a club favorite, showcasing both artists’ talents. Sarz, known for hits with Wizkid and Burna Boy, brings his masterful production, while Lojay shines with his versatile sound.
With such an impressive roster of nominees, the race for Recording of the Year is bound to be intense. The winner will succeed Victony & Tempoe’s hit “Soweto,” which claimed the award at the 2023 edition.
Who will take home the trophy this year? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the music scene is in for a thrilling showdown.
