TRACE Awards & Summit 2025

From February 24 to 26, 2025, the TRACE Awards highlight the musical richness and diversity of the continent and its diaspora.

Zanzibar, pearl of the Indian Ocean, is preparing to host a global event: the TRACE Awards & Summit 2025from February 24 to 26. Bringing together the biggest stars of African and diasporic music, this event will be a platform to celebrate the creativity, innovation and cultural impact of a continent on the rise on the international music scene.

Organized in the enchanting setting of The Moraa luxurious resort nestled in the heart of Zanzibar, the TRACE Awards stand out as much more than an awards ceremony. They embody a celebration of musical excellence and an opportunity to connect talents, creators and visionaries across the diaspora.

A showcase for musical diversity

Since their creation, the TRACE Awards have established themselves as a springboard for African and Afro-descendant artists, highlighting the richness and diversity of musical genres that arise from the continent and resonate across the world. Among the key categories this year are:

« Song of the Year »with iconic titles like “Higher” by Burna Boy et “give him” by Tyler ICU.
« Best Collaboration »where artists like Asake, Travis Scott, Rema and Shallipopi show how Africa fits into global stages.
« Album of the Year »a category celebrating projects that redefine artistic standards.

The 2025 edition is not limited to artists from the continent. It also highlights talents from the diaspora in special categories, including stars from the Caribbean, Brazil and Europe. Names like Ludmilla, Racionais MC’s and Duquesa embody this connection between African roots and their modern diasporic expressions.

Zanzibar: The perfect setting to celebrate Africa

Far from being a trivial choice, Zanzibar alone represents the soul of Africa. With its rich history of cultural crossroads, this island symbolizes exchange and encounter, values at the heart of the TRACE Awards. The Morathe venue of the event, will offer an immersive experience in a setting that is both luxurious and authentic.

A summit to build the future of the industry

Alongside the ceremony, the TRACE Summit will bring together artists, producers, managers and opinion leaders around key discussions for the future of the African music industry. The panels will cover themes such as:

Technological innovation and its impact on music distribution.
Protection of the rights of African artists in the face of globalization.
Cultural restitution and the role of music in the reappropriation of African stories.

With renowned speakers, the summit will be a unique opportunity to collectively reflect on the global impact of African music and ways to strengthen its influence.

A breathtaking artistic program

The TRACE Awards wouldn’t be complete without their live performances. This year, spectators will have the opportunity to witness memorable shows from superstars like Diamond Platnumz, Asake, Tems, and Fally Ipupa. Each performance promises to be a vibrant celebration of the different cultures that make up the African mosaic.

A celebration of diasporic excellence

Diasporic artists, whether from Brazil, the Caribbean or Europe, are not left out. Categories like « Best Diaspora Artist » highlight their ability to bring African sounds to new territories, while paying homage to their roots. These artists show that the diaspora is not only an extension of Africa, but also an innovative force that redefines musical boundaries.

Join the experience

The TRACE Awards are not just a ceremony: they are a cultural manifesto, celebrating African wealth, creativity and diversity. Come and vibrate in Zanzibar from February 24 to 26, 2025.