Nigeria’s biggest music stars are in the race for Grammys 2027 recognition, with at least seven artists reported to have submitted their work for consideration ahead of the nominations announcement on 16 November 2026.
According to BusinessDay, Davido, Tems, Asake, Ayra Starr, Seun Kuti, Victony and Adekunle Gold have all put forward entries for the 69th Grammy Awards, which will hold on 7 February 2027 in Los Angeles. It is important to note that these are reported submissions, not confirmed nominations.
Davido and Tems Aim for the Biggest Categories
Davido has reportedly entered his album Oriadé for Album of the Year and Best Global Music Album, while his song “B4 B4” has been put forward for Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best African Music Performance.
Tems, already a Grammy winner, has reportedly submitted her album Love Is a Kingdom for Album of the Year and Best Global Music Album. Her single “What You Need” is in the running for R&B categories, while “Raindance” with British rapper Dave and “I Think You’re Special” with Justin Bieber have also been entered.
Asake, Ayra Starr and Others in the Mix
- Asake: album M$NEY, plus “Gratitude” and “Jogodo” with Wizkid, and “Worship” with DJ Snake for Best Dance Pop Recording.
- Ayra Starr: album Starrgirl, “Heaven Baby” with Zayn Malik, and “Who’s Dat Girl” with Rema.
- Victony: album Starlife and the single “Slick,” with talk of a Best New Artist push.
- Adekunle Gold: album Fuji Xtra, the single “Many People,” and his live Fuji Orchestra concert film.
- Seun Kuti: “Na Dem” and “Problems” for Best African Music Performance.
The Best African Music Performance Race
The Best African Music Performance category, introduced at the 2024 Grammys, has become a major battleground for Nigerian and South African artists. With so many strong entries from Nigeria alone, the competition for the five nomination spots is expected to be fierce. South African star Tyla, a previous winner, is also reported to have submitted new work.
What Happens Next
Members of the Recording Academy are now voting on the submissions. The final list of nominees will be announced on 16 November, when Nigerians will find out which of their stars have made the cut.
Nigeria has enjoyed growing success at the Grammys in recent years, with Burna Boy, Wizkid and Tems among past winners. Fans will be hoping 2027 brings even more golden gramophones home.
Sources: BusinessDay, The Citizen (South Africa), DancehallMag. Image: Wikimedia Commons (file photo).