The Headies Awards, Nigeria’s most prestigious music prize, has given Afrobeats fans countless unforgettable moments since its inception in 2006.
Over the years, the awards have captured the highs, lows, and even controversial moments that shaped the Nigerian music scene.
Here’s a look back at the top ten memorable events that defined the Headies.
- D’Banj’s Bold Towel Performance and Bovi’s Reenactment
In 2005, D’Banj wowed his fans and the audience by performing his hit song “Why Me” with just a towel wrapped around him, giving the crowd a blend of excitement and confusion.
Ten years later, comedian Bovi paid homage to this iconic moment by recreating the performance on stage, much to the delight of long-time fans.
- Burna Boy’s 2013 Walk-Out
The Next Rated category has always been hotly contested, and in 2013, Burna Boy walked out of the awards after Sean Tizzle beat him to the prize.
Burna Boy’s departure from the venue sparked intense debate and became one of the most talked-about moments that year.
- Wizkid’s 2016 Snub of Caeser
Wizkid’s surprise appearance at the 2016 Headies led to a viral moment when he hugged fellow artist Eva but walked right past her fiancé Caeser, who had his hand outstretched for a handshake.
Though Wizkid later apologized, Caeser’s hanging hand turned into an internet meme that still resonates with fans today.
- Wande Coal’s Dominance in 2010
In a historic sweep at the 2010 Headies, Wande Coal collected five awards, including Album of the Year and Artist of the Year, proving the impact of his “Mushin to Mohits” album.
This unforgettable achievement set a high standard for future artists.
- Jamopyper’s Starstruck 2020 Moment with Wizkid
At the 2020 Headies, Jamopyper, a Rookie of the Year nominee, was visibly starstruck when he acknowledged Wizkid in the audience before his performance.
His excited reaction was adorable, though it came with some slightly awkward moments on stage.
- Fireboy DML Equals Wande Coal’s Record in 2019
Fireboy made his mark at the 2019 Headies by winning five awards, a feat only matched by Wande Coal.
Despite missing out on an Artist of the Year nomination, Fireboy’s achievements solidified his status as one of the brightest stars in Afrobeats.
- Bovi’s Bold 2020 #ENDSARS Tribute
Comedian Bovi took a powerful stand at the 2020 Headies by wearing a blood-stained Nigerian flag shirt in tribute to the October 2020 #ENDSARS protests.
His gesture was widely praised by Nigerian youths, although it attracted criticism from some government supporters.
- Bovi’s “Steve Harvey” Moment in 2015
Adding humor to the tense 2015 Next Rated Award category, Bovi pretended to mispronounce Reekado Banks’ name when he was announced as the winner.
Although meant as a joke, the moment heightened the already intense atmosphere of the night.
- Wizkid’s O2 Concert Outshines the 2019 Headies
In 2019, Wizkid’s sold-out O2 concert in London overshadowed the Headies Awards, with most of the industry’s top stars choosing to attend Wizkid’s show instead.
The Headies, aiming to boost its image, learned from this by securing Wizkid’s presence at the 2020 ceremony.
- The Legendary 2015 Olamide and Don Jazzy Faceoff
The 2015 Headies took an unforgettable turn when Olamide expressed his disappointment over Reekado Banks winning the Next Rated Award over Lil Kesh.
A heated exchange between Olamide and Don Jazzy followed, creating a media frenzy and leaving an indelible mark in Headies history.
From D’Banj’s towel to the Olamide-Don Jazzy clash, the Headies Awards have not only highlighted Nigerian music’s rise but have also given fans moments they won’t forget.
As Afrobeats continues to evolve, the Headies’ legacy will remain as vibrant as ever.
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