2020 Headies Awards: Tems, Omah Lay, Bella Shmurda, Oxlade Battle for ‘Next Rated’

According to Wikipedia, the Headies (originally called the Hip Hop World Awards) is a music awards show established in 2006 by the Hip Hop World Magazine of Nigeria to recognise outstanding achievements in the Nigerian music industry.

The annual ceremony features performances by established and promising artists which is broadcast live on HipTV to viewers across.

Since the inception of the awards, the ceremony has been held in Lagos where several media personalities in Nigeria have hosted the event, including Darey Art Alade, D’banj, Dakore Egbuson, Banky W, Rita Dominic and more.

One of the most competitive categories is the “Next Rated” category which recognises acts who have been doing well in their genre music.

Nominees for this year’s Next Rated category include Tems, Omah Lay, Bella Shmurda and Oxlade.

Tems released an EP this year which had in it her popular song, Damages. Her genre of music has been unique and tantalizing for music lovers in the entertainment industry.

Omah Lay, the “Damn” singer, released two different EPs between 2019 and 2020. He has featured and recorded hit songs resulting in his nomination.

Bella Shmurda, who had recently been featured in Davido’s “A Better Time” album and has also featured Olamide in his single, Vision 2020, was also nominated for the Next Rated category. His song, “Cash App” has gained listening ears.

Oxlade, the “Trouble causer” with his song “Causing Trouble” was nominated as an individual alongside listed acts above. Before now, his popular song, “Away” had blown minds of many, causing them to fall in love with him.

With the nomination of these acts, reactions have centred on who deserves it and ought to win.

A music lover, Olabisi Olatunji has said he hopes Tems win the Next Rated as she has dropped the best EP and singles so far. While another music lover, Adesola Ikulajolu picked Omah Lay not only because he is consistent, but he believes he (Omah  Lay) has a huge fan base. He said: “Judging from his rising story, he fought through because his contents are good. He has a special delivery that naturally sinks into the mind of listeners.”

Also, several opinions were aired as some people announced they would support Oxlade and Bella Shmurda while some find it difficult to decide who would win due to how competitive this year’s nomination is.

In 2019, Rema won the Next Rated award, beating Fireboy DML, Joeboy, Lyta, Victor AD and Zlatan.