2024 BET Awards: Nigeria dominates with over 5 nominations, Ghana snubbed

In a surprising turn of events, Ghanaian artists have been completely overlooked in the nominations for the 2024 BET Awards, while their Nigerian counterparts have garnered significant recognition.

Nigeria's music scene continues to make waves internationally, with several artists securing prominent nominations.

Leading the pack is Nigeria’s breakout star Ayra Starr, who has been nominated in three categories: Best New International Act, BET Her, and Best International Act. Ayra Starr’s rapid rise in the music industry has been nothing short of meteoric, making her a strong contender in this year’s awards.

Burna Boy, another heavyweight from Nigeria, has received nominations in the Best Male Hip-Hop Artist and Best Male R&B/Pop Artist categories.

Known for his powerful performances and chart-topping hits, Burna Boy will face stiff competition from global icons like Kendrick Lamar, Chris Brown, Drake, and Usher.

Adding to Nigeria’s impressive lineup, Tems has been nominated for the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award and Video Director of the Year. Tems’ versatility and unique sound have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.

Asake and Seyi Vibez also made the cut, with nominations for Best International Act and Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act, respectively.

These rising stars have captured the hearts of many with their innovative music and dynamic performances.

The BET Awards are set to air live on BET on Sunday, June 30, at 8 PM ET/PT, promising a night of spectacular performances and celebration of musical excellence.

Here is a glimpse at some of the top categories and nominees for the 2024 BET Awards:

BEST FEMALE R&B/POP ARTIST

• Beyoncé

• Coco Jones

• Doja Cat

• H.E.R.

• Muni Long

• SZA

• Tyla

• Victoria Monét

BEST MALE R&B/POP ARTIST

• Brent Faiyaz

• Bryson Tiller

• Burna Boy

• Chris Brown

• Drake

• Fridayy

• October London

• Usher

BEST GROUP

• ¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $Ign

• 2 Chainz & Lil Wayne

• 41

• Blxst & Bino Rideaux

• City Girls

• Flo

• Maverick City Music

• Wanmor

BEST COLLABORATION

• All My Life, Lil Durk Feat. J. Cole

• America Has A Problem (Remix), Beyoncé Feat. Kendrick Lamar

• Barbie World, Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (With Aqua)

• Bongos, Cardi B Feat. Megan Thee Stallion

• Carnival, ¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $Ign Feat. Rich The Kid, Playboi Carti

• Don’t Play With It (Remix), Lola Brooke Feat. Latto & Yung Miami

• Everybody, Nicki Minaj Feat. Lil Uzi Vert

• Good Good, Usher, Summer Walker & 21 Savage

• Rich Baby Daddy, Drake Feat. Sexyy Red & SZA

BEST FEMALE HIP-HOP ARTIST

• Cardi B

• Doja Cat

• GloRilla

• Ice Spice

• Latto

• Megan Thee Stallion

• Nicki Minaj

• Sexyy Red

BEST MALE HIP-HOP ARTIST

• 21 Savage

• Burna Boy

• Drake

• Future

• Gunna

• J. Cole

• Kendrick Lamar

• Lil Wayne

BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT

• Asake (Africa)

• Aya Nakamura (France)

• Ayra Starr (Africa)

• Bk’ (Brazil)

• Cleo Sol (UK)

• Focalistic (Africa)

• Karol Conká (Brazil)

• Raye (UK)

• Tiakola (France)

• Tyla (Africa)

The Nigerian dominance at this year's BET Awards is a testament to the country's vibrant music industry and its growing influence on the global stage.

Meanwhile, the absence of Ghanaian nominees has sparked discussions about the need for greater support and recognition for Ghana's talented artists.

Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable night celebrating the best in music and entertainment.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith