In Summary
- Calm Down’ did not clinch victories in other nominated categories such as Top Radio Song
- The night’s top winner was country singer Morgan Wallen
- Nigerian artists Burna Boy and Rema have both won the newly unveiled Afrobeat awards,
Nigerian music stars Burna Boy and Rema made history at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, as they became the first-ever winners of the Afrobeats awards.
Burna Boy emerged victorious in the Top Afrobeats Artist category, beating out stiff competition from Wizkid, Tems, and Rema.
Meanwhile, Rema’s Calm Down remix featuring Selena Gomez took home the prize for Top Afrobeats Song.
Burna Boy’s Acceptance Speech
“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.”
Rema expressed gratitude, and appreciated the fans for the continued support
Burna Boy & Rema making Moves
On 14 November, Rema became the latest Afrobeats star Rema 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.
Despite their wins, ‘Calm Down’ did not clinch victories in other nominated categories such as Top Radio Song and Top Billboard Global song.
Taylor Swift Secures 10 Wins
The night’s top winner was country singer Morgan Wallen, who secured an impressive 11 wins, while Taylor Swift followed closely with 10 wins. Swift’s victories, along with Drake’s five, put them in a tie for the artists with the most Billboard Music Awards of all time.
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.
