Apple Music Awards 2021: Wizkid named Africa Artist of the Year

The awards celebrate outstanding musical acts across five categories namely Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Top Song of the Year and Top Album of the Year. According to Apple Music, winners were selected via a process reflective of Apple Music’s editorial perspective and global listening habits.

“The past 12 months have proved to be a remarkable year for music, and we’re thrilled to honour the artists who are shaping culture and connecting with fans around the world on Apple Music,” Apple’s vice president of Apple Music and Beats, Oliver Schusser, said. “This year we’re also recognising more regional artists, showing the world the impact of extraordinarily talented musicians who are making waves globally.”

“Thank you to Apple Music for this award,” Wizkid said. “It’s a blessing to get to do what I do, and I’m proud to be representing for Africa.”

The Artist of the Year Africa prize forms part of five new regional Artist of the Year awards. Aya Nakamura (France), Official Hige Dandism (Japan), RIN (Germany) and Scriptonite (Russia) were the other winners in the new regional categories. 

Wizkid’s win adds to a successful run of 2021 achievements, including the global chart success of his single ‘Essence’, an MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act and a successful world tour in favour of his Made In Lagos album, which this week saw him complete multiple sold-out dates at the O2 Arena in London, UK. Wizkid is also in the running for multiple awards at the 64th annual Grammy Award (Grammys) next year.

US R&B singer H.E.R. picked up the Songwriter of the Year gong, while Canadian singer The Weeknd was named Global Artist of the Year.

The Apple Music Awards will feature a celebration, which commences on 7 December with interviews and original content streaming worldwide on Apple Music and the Apple TV app.