By Milcah Tanimu
The 67th Grammy Awards, set for February 2, 2025, will see eight Nigerian artists vying for top honors. With nominations in Best African Music Performance, Best Global Album, and Best R&B Song, Nigerian stars aim to expand the country’s Grammy wins.
Best R&B Song: Tems Faces Tough Competition
Nominees:
- After Hours – Kehlani
- Burning – Tems
- Here We Go (Uh Oh) – Coco Jones
- Ruined Me – Muni Long
- Saturn – SZA
Tems’ nomination is historic, but her chances of winning are slim. SZA’s Saturn has strong momentum, with nominations at major awards like MTV, BET, and Billboard. Muni Long’s Ruined Me is also a top contender. While Burning is a strong track, it may struggle against these heavyweight nominees.
Verdict: Tems’ chances are low due to strong competition from SZA and Muni Long.
Best Global Music Album: Can Tems or Rema Make History?
Nominees:
- Alkebulan II – Matt B feat. Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
- Paisajes – Ciro Hurtado
- HEIS – Rema
- Historias De Un Flamenco – Antonio Rey
- Born in the Wild – Tems
Tems and Rema aim to become Nigeria’s second winners in this category, following Burna Boy. However, their albums stray from the traditional world music elements that the Grammys often favor. Ciro Hurtado and Antonio Rey, with their rich global sounds, are stronger contenders.
Verdict: Tems and Rema may struggle in this category. An upset would be needed for a win.
Best African Music Performance: A Guaranteed Nigerian Winner
Nominees:
- Tomorrow – Yemi Alade
- MMS – Asake & Wizkid
- Sensational – Chris Brown feat. Davido & Lojay
- Higher – Burna Boy
- Love Me JeJe – Tems
With all but one nominee being Nigerian, a win is certain. Chris Brown’s Sensational has strong commercial success, but awarding a non-African artist in this category may be controversial. Tems’ Love Me Jeje is a strong contender, benefiting from her rising U.S. profile. Burna Boy’s Grammy pedigree also makes him a threat.
Verdict: Sensational and Love Me Jeje are favorites, but an upset is possible.
Final Outlook
While Nigerian artists are guaranteed at least one Grammy win, their chances in other categories remain uncertain. Tems, despite her strong nominations, faces stiff competition. Rema’s album may struggle against more traditional global music contenders. However, Afrobeats’ Grammy presence continues to grow, signaling bigger wins in the future.
