Awards
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Comedian, actor and writer Deon Cole will host the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, airing live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS.
“BET is excited to partner once again with the incomparable Deon Cole, whose effortless charm and humor resonate deeply with our audiences,” Connie Orlando, EVP of specials, music programming and music strategy at BET, said in a statement.
“As a comedian, actor, and cultural icon, Deon Cole has consistently used his talent to entertain, uplift and inspire,” added Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO. “His humor, deep appreciation for the culture and commitment to our community has cemented him as an entertainment legend.”
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This is Cole’s first time hosting the NAACP Image Awards. Queen Latifah hosted the show the last two years. Blackish star Anthony Anderson hosted the nine years before that.
BET Media Group will receive the NAACP Founders Award on the telecast. The award recognizes BET Media Group’s 45-year legacy of amplifying Black culture.
Launched in 1980 by founders Bob and Sheila Johnson, BET quickly became a force. Under Debra Lee’s leadership, the network expanded its global footprint. Today, under Scott Mills’ leadership, BET has become a multi-platform media powerhouse, spanning television, streaming, digital, live events and international markets.
“The Founder’s Award honors those who dare to dream beyond limits and turn vision into reality. Johnson said in a statement. “For more than four decades, BET has been an innovator of culture, creating space for our community to see themselves recognized on-screen and inspiring generations to believe that their dreams are within reach. BET has redefined media by championing bold storytelling, celebrating unforgettable music and delivering groundbreaking moments that resonate with audiences worldwide. Through their undeniable leadership in the entertainment industry, BET has continuously pushed boundaries and set new standards for others to follow in their path.”
Previous recipients of the Founders Award include Toni Vaz, founder of the NAACP Image Awards, and country music icon Garth Brooks.
Previously announced special award recipients at this year’s NAACP Image Awards are comedian Dave Chappelle (President’s Award) and The Wayans Family (NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame) and former Vice President Kamala Harris (Chairman’s Award).
The 56th NAACP Image Awards will be telecast live on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. NAACP will also recognize winners in non–televised categories at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Friday, Feb. 21.
The 2025 Premio Lo Nuestro ceremony has arrived, and the first winners have been announced on social media. Before noon ET on Thursday (Feb. 20), Carín León had already won two awards, as had Shakira with Cardi B, and more winners will be announced before the ceremony.
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Broadcasting live at 8 p.m. ET from the Kaseya Center in Miami and co-hosted by Laura Pausini, Thalia and Alejandra Espinoza, this year’s gala’s theme is “Uniendo Generaciones” (Uniting Generations), honoring the artists, songs, and albums that connect the past, present and future of Latin music.
Reflecting the diversity of genres including urban, pop, tropical and Mexican music, six of the 44 categories this year are new additions: best dembow song, best Latin fusion pop song, best Christian music song, best “EuroSong,” Mexican music fusion of the year and best electro corrido.
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Becky G and Carín León start the night with the most nominations: 10 mentions each. They are followed by Shakira and Myke Towers with nine nods each and Ángela Aguilar, Emilia, Grupo Frontera and Leonardo Aguilar with eight nominations each. But, who will be the biggest winners?
Check out our updating list below.
Premio Lo Nuestro Artist of the Year
Carín LeónFeidFuerza RegidaGrupo FronteraKarol GMalumaMyke TowersPeso PlumaShakiraXavi
Song of the Year
Feid & Rema, “Bubalu”Prince Royce feat. Gabito Ballesteros, “Cosas De La PedaÓscar Maydon & Fuerza Regida, “Tú Boda”Xavi, “La Diabla”Myke Towers, “La Falda” Los Ángeles Azules & Emilia, “Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?”Becky G, Ángela Aguilar & Leonardo Aguilar, “Por El Contrario”Carín León, “Primera Cita”Shakira & Cardi B, “Puntería”Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
Album of the Year
Carín León, Boca Chueca, Vol.1 Ángela Aguilar, BoleroBecky H, EsquinasGrupo Frontera, Jugando A Que No Pasa NadaShakira, Las Mujeres Ya No LloranPrince Royce, Llamada PerdidaMyke Towers, Lveu: Vive La Tuya…no La MíaMarc Anthony, MuevenseBad Bunny, Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va A Pasar MañanaFuerza Regida, Pa Las Baby’s Y Belikeada
Best Female Combination
Kim Loaiza, Fariana, Ptazeta, Bellakath & Yami Safdie, “5 Babys”Ha*Ash & Elena Rose, “A Las 12 Te Olvidé”Bad Gyal, Tokischa & Young Miko, “Chulo Pt. 2”Becky G & Chiquis, “Cuidadito”Belinda & Kenia Os, “Jackpot”Emilia & Tini, “La_original.Mp3”Kali Uchis & Karol G, “Labios Mordidos”María José & Ana Bárbara, “Mi Rey, Mi Santo”Kany García & Carla Morrison, “Que Vuelva”Thalia & Ángela Aguilar, “Troca”
Crossover Collaboration of the Year
Pitbull, Ne-Yo, Afrojack Feat. DJ Buddha, “The Moon”Grupo Firme & Demi Lovato, “Chula”Myke Towers feat. Benny Blanco, “Degenere”Carin León & Leon Bridges, “It Was Always You (Siempre Fuiste Tú)”WINNERS: Shakira & Cardi B, “Puntería”Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Regard, Natti Natasha, Sash!, “To the Beat”Black Eyed Peas & El Alfa feat. Becky G, “Tonight (Bad Boys: Ride Or Die)”Ozuna & David Guetta, “Vocation”
The Perfect Mix of the Year
Shakira & Grupo Frontera, “(Entre Paréntesis)”Maluma, Octavio Cuadras & Grupo Marca Registrada, “Bling Bling”Prince Royce feat. Gabito Ballesteros, “Cosas De La Peda”Fariana & Oro Solido, “El Caballito”Ricky Martin & Christian Nodal, “Fuego De Noche, Nieve De Día”Alejandro Fernández & Anitta, “La Tóxica”Sergio George & Wisin, “La Vida Es Una Fiesta”Los Ángeles Azules & Emilia, “Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?”Becky G, Ángela Aguilar & Leonardo Aguilar, “Por El Contrario”Camilo & Carín León, “Una Vida Pasada”
Tour of the Year
Aventura, Cerrando Ciclos TourFeid, Ferxxocalipsis Tour 2024Luis Miguel, Luis Miguel Tour 2023-24Karol G, Mañana Será Bonito TourBad Bunny, Most Wanted Tour
Urban Male Artist of the Year
Bad BunnyChencho CorleoneDon OmarEladio CarriónFeidMyke TowersOzunaRauw AlejandroWisinYandel
Urban Female Artist of the Year
AnittaBad GyalBellakathFarianaGreeicyKarol GMaria BecerraNatti NatashaNicki NicoleYoung Miko
Urban Song of the Year
Ozuna, “Baccarat”Peso Pluma & Anitta, “Bellakeo”Farruko & Sharo Towers, “Carbon Vrmor”Bad Gyal, Tokischa & Young Miko, “Chulo Pt. 2”Floyymenor & Cris MJ, “Gata Only”Myke Towers, “La Falda”Lyanno & Rauw Alejandro, “La Nena”Kapo, “Ohnana”Don Omar, Wisin & Yandel, “Sandunga”Bad Bunny, “Un Preview”
Best Trap/Hip-Hop Song
Ryan Castro, “Gata G”Bad Bunny, “Monaco”The Academy: Segunda Misión, Justin Quiles, Sech, Lenny Tavárez, Dalex, Dímelo Flow feat. Eladio Carrión, Bryant Myers & Dei V, “Si Si Si Si”Anuel AA, “Tacos Gucci”Trueno, “Tranky Funky”Young Miko, “Wiggy”
Urban Collaboration of the Year
Kim Loaiza, Fariana, Ptazeta, Bellakath & Yami Safdie, “5 Babys”Tiago Pzk, Anitta & Emilia, “Alegría”Wisin & Mora, “Bien Loco”Yandel & Myke Towers, “Borracho y Loco”Blessd & Ovy on the Drums, “Mírame”Luar La L & Ozuna, “Otra Vibra”Zion & Lennox & Anuel AA, “Para Siempre”Bad Bunny & Feid, “Perro Negro”J Balvin & Chencho Corleone, “Polvo De Tu Vida”Don Omar, Wisin & Yandel, “Sandunga”
Best Dembow Song
Chimbala, “Che Che”Rochy Rd & Donaty, “Déjenme Rulay”Fariana & El Alfa, “Dora”El Alfa & Nfasis, “Este”Lomiiel, “Hay Lupita”
Urban Album of the Year
Young Miko, Att.Farruko, CVRBON VRMOR [C_DE: G_D.ON]Feid, Ferxxocalipsis Bad Gyal, La JoiaMyke Towers, Lveu: Vive La Tuya…no La MíaKarol G, Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season)Wisin, Mr. W (Deluxe)Bad Bunny, Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar MañanaEladio Carrión, Porque PuedoJ Balvin, Rayo
Pop Male Artist of the Year
WINNER: Carlos RiveraDanny OceanLuis FonsiMalumaManuel MedranoPedro Capó
Pop Female Artist of the Year
BelindaElena RoseEmiliaKali UchisKany GarcíaLaura PausiniShakiraThalia
Pop/Rock Group or Duo of the Year
CamilaDarumasHa*AshRawayanaReikThe Warning
Pop-Rock/Urban Male New Artist of the Year
Ca7riel & Paco AmorosoClarentDND | Do Not DisturbFloyymenorIzaakKapoLuar La LMaisakTimøVenesti
Pop-Rock/Urban Female New Artist of the Year
BellakathDarumasDaymé ArocenaEla TaubertIrepelusaJudelineLetón PéMariPaola GuancheYami Safdie
Pop Song of the Year
Ela Taubert, “¿Cómo Pasó?”Reik, “Abril”Enrique Iglesias & Yotuel, “Fría”Emilia & Tini, “La_original.Mp3”Sebastián Yatra, “Los Domingos”Diego Torres, “Mejor Que Ayer”Luis Fonsi & Carlos Vives, “Santa Marta” Manuel Medrano, “Verano En NY”
Pop/Ballad Song of the Year
Camila & Eden Muñoz, “Corazón En Coma”Ricky Martin & Christian Nodal, “Fuego De Noche, Nieve De Día”Jesse & Joy, “Lo Que Nos Faltó Decir”Olga Tañón & Lenier, “No Sé Quien Soy”Carlos Rivera, “Para Ti”Kany García & Carla Morrison, “Que Vuelva”Luis Fonsi & Laura Pausini, “Roma”Ángela Aguilar Ft. Trío Los Panchos, “Somos Novios”
Best Pop Latin Fusion Song
Judeline , “Brujería!”Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso, “La Que Puede, Puede”The Marías, “Lejos De Ti”Latin Mafia, “Siento Que Merezco Más”Rawayana & Akapellah, “Veneka”
Christian Song of the Year
Daddy Yankee, “Bonita”Gocho, Redimi2 & Wisin, “Conéctate Conmigo”Farruko & Kairo Worship, “Hermoso Momento (Remix)”Alex Campos & Tauren Wells, “Libre”Juan Luis Guerra 4.40, “Mambo 23”Matthew Hotton & Marcos Witt, “Primero Nos Amó”
Pop-Urban Album of the Year
Emilia, .MP3 Luis Fonsi, El ViajeAnitta, Funk GenerationKany García, GarcíaMau y Ricky, Hotel CaracasShakira, Las Mujeres Ya No LloranNatti Natasha, Nasty SinglesReik, PanoramaDanny Ocean, ReflexaPitbull, Trackhouse
Pop-Urban Collaboration of the Year
Feid & Rema, “Bubalu”Nicky Jam & Beéle, “Calor”Zhamira Zambrano & Jay Wheeler, “Extrañándote”Piso 21 & Wisin, “La Misión”Anuel AA, Quevedo, Maluma Ft. Mambo Kingz & Dj Luian, “Oa”WINNERS: Shakira & Cardi B, “Puntería”
Pop-Urban Song of the Year
Danny Ocean, “Amor”Lenny Tavárez, “El Yate”Venesti, “Fanática del Reggaetón”Anitta, “Funk Rave”Daddy Yankee, “Loveo”Manuel Turizo, “Ojos. Labios. Cara”Mau Y Ricky, “Pasado Mañana”Peso Pluma & Kenia Os, “Tommy & Pamela”Rauw Alejandro, “Touching The Sky”Natti Natasha, “Ya No Te Extraño”
Pop-Urban/Dance Song of the Year
Play-N-Skillz, Natti Natasha & Deorro, “Como La Flor”Pitbull & Nile Rodgers, “Freak 54 (Freak Out)”Thalia & Deorro, “Te Va A Doler – Deorro Remix”Rauw Alejandro, “Touching The Sky”Ozuna & David Guetta, “Vocation”
“Eurosong” of the Year
Aitana, “4to 23” Bad Gyal, Tokischa & Young Miko, “Chulo Pt.2”Quevedo, “Columbia”Lola Indigo, “La Reina”Ana Mena, “Madrid City”
Tropical Artist of the Year
Carlos VivesGente De ZonaJerry RiveraJuan Luis Guerra 4.40La IndiaLuis FigueroaMarc AnthonyOlga TañónPrince RoyceSilvestre Dangond
Tropical Song of the Year
Marc Anthony, “Ale Ale”Luis Figueroa, “Bandido”Myke Towers, “La Capi”Juan Luis Guerra 4.40, “Mambo 23”Jerry Rivera, “No Le Cuentes”Víctor Manuelle Ft. Frankie Ruiz, “Otra Noche Más”Natti Natasha, “Quiéreme Menos”Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”Kany García, “Una Vida Buena”Camilo & Carín León, “Una Vida Pasada”
Tropical Collaboration of the Year
Gente De Zona & Celia Cruz, “Celia”Prince Royce Ft. Gabito Ballesteros, “Cosas De La Peda” Fariana & Oro Solido, “El Caballito”La India & Jacob Forever, “Fuera Fuera”Sergio George & Wisin, “La Vida Es Una Fiesta”Venesti, Nacho & Maffio, “No Es Normal”WINNERS: Camilo & Evaluna Montaner, “Plis”Motiff, Jonathan Moly, Luis Figueroa Ft. Jimmy Rodriguez, Ronald Borjas & Nesty, “Salsa De Ahora”Silvestre Dangond & Carlos Vives, “Tú o Yo”Olga Tañón & Christian Alicea, “Vamos A Ser Feliz”
Tropical Album of the Year
Olga Tañón, Así Yo SoyLuis Figueroa, CoexistenciaCamilo, CuatroGente De Zona, DemasiadoPrince Royce, Llamada PerdidaMarc Anthony, MuevenseJuan Luis Guerra 4.40, Radio GüiraVíctor Manuelle, RetrománticoSilvestre Dangond, Ta MaloChristian Alicea, Yo Deluxe
Mexican Music Male Artist of the Year
Alejandro FernándezWINNER: Carín LeónChristian NodalGabito BallesterosJunior HLeonardo AguilarPepe AguilarPeso PlumaXaviÓscar Maydon
Mexican Music Female Artist of the Year
Aida CuevasAna BárbaraÁngela AguilarCamila FernándezChiquisKarina SofiaLila DownsLupita InfanteMajo AguilarYuridia
Mexican Music Group or Duo of the Year
Banda Los RecoditosFuerza RegidaGrupo FirmeGrupo FronteraIntocableLos Ángeles Azules
Mexican Music New Artist
Calle 24Chino PacasCodiciadoEl Padrinito ToysGabito BallesterosNetón VegaÓscar MaydonTito Double PVictor MendivilXavi
Mexican Music Song of the Year
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda, “Buscándole a La Suerte”Grupo Frontera & Manuel Turizo, “De Lunes a Lunes”Óscar Maydon & Fuerza Regida, “La Boda”Xavi, “La Diabla”Christian Nodal & Peso Pluma, “La Intención”Intocable, “Obsesión”Los Ángeles Azules & Emilia, “Perdonarte ¿Para Qué?”Becky G, Ángela Aguilar & Leonardo Aguilar, “Por El Contrario”WINNER: Carín León, “Primera Cita”Banda Los Recoditos, “Vas a Querer Volver”
Mexican Music Collaboration of the Year
Shakira & Grupo Frontera, “(Entre Paréntesis)”Eugenio Esquivel, Grupo Marca Registrada & Sebastian Esquivel, “Alucin”Leonardo Aguilar & Pepe Aguilar, “Bandido De Amores”Maluma, Octavio Cuadras & Grupo Marca Registrada, “Bling Bling”Tito Double P & Peso Pluma, “Dos Días”Banda Los Sebastianes de Saúl Plata & Edgardo Nuñez, “El Humo de mi Gallo”Los Ángeles Azules & Alejandro Fernández, “La Cumbia Triste”Becky G Ft. Óscar Maydon, “Mercedes”Bizarrap & Natanael Cano, “Natanael Cano: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 59”Luis R Conriquez & Netón Vega, “Si No Quieres No”
Banda Song of the Year
La Adictiva, Grupo Marca Registrada & Montana, “Bandida”Leonardo Aguilar & Pepe Aguilar, “Bandido de Amores”Banda Los Sebastianes de Saúl Plata & Edgardo Nuñez, “El Humo de mi Gallo”Banda MS de Sergio Lizárraga, “Tu Perfume”Banda Los Recoditos, “Vas a Querer Volver”
Mariachi/Ranchera Song of the Year
Majo Aguilar & Alex Fernández, “Cuéntame”Alejandro Fernández & Anitta, “La Tóxica”Pepe Aguilar & Carín León, “Lamentablemente”Yuridia & Eden Muñoz, “Mi Eterno Amor Secreto”Chayanne, “Necesito Un Segundo”Becky G, Ángela Aguilar & Leonardo Aguilar, “Por El Contrario”
Norteño Song of the Year
Adriel Favela & Duelo, “¿Quién Te Crees Para Olvidarme?”Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda, “Buscándole a La Suerte”Intocable, “Mi Castigo”La Fiera de Ojinaga, “Neta Que No” La Maquinaria Norteña, “Perro Amor”
Mexican Music Fusion of the Year
Oscar Ortiz & Edgardo Nuñez, “First Love”Xavi, “La Diabla”Victor Mendivil & Óscar Maydon, “Mejores Jordans”Becky G feat. Óscar Maydon, “Mercedes”Grupo Frontera & Christian Nodal, “Ya Pedo Quién Sabe”
Best Electro Corrido
Sebastian Esquivel, Blessd & Eugenio Esquivel, “Exceso”Lalo Cruz, “Fresa Con Crema”Codiciado, Joaquin Medina & Sheeno, “Gabachas”Fuerza Regida & Marshmello, “Harley Quinn”Peso Pluma & DJ Snake, “Teka”
Mexican Music Album of the Year
La Arrolladora Banda El Limón de René Camacho, Aquí Hay Para LlevarCarín León, Boca Chueca, Vol.1Becky G, EsquinasGrupo Frontera, Jugando A Que No Pasa NadaIntocable, Modus OperandiFuerza Regida, Pa Las Baby’s y BelikeadaJulión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda, PresenteLila Downs, Niña Pastori & Soledad, Raíz Nunca Me FuiLeonardo Aguilar, Soy Como Quiero SerAlejandro Fernández, Te Llevo En La Sangre
Thirty-five years after Indigo Girls won a Grammy for best contemporary folk recording for their eponymous debut album, the duo received a lifetime achievement award at The International Folk Music Awards. The awards show took place at Montreal’s Queen Elizabeth Hotel on Feb. 19, the first night of the 37th annual Folk Alliance International (FAI) Conference. YouTube livestreamed the show, which could also be viewed via NPR Music, WMOT.org and Folk Alley.
Indigo Girls, consisting of Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, received a second Grammy nod 35 years ago – best new artist. They lost to a flashier duo, Milli Vanilli, whose award was later revoked on the grounds that they didn’t perform on their album, a charge never leveled against Indigo Girls.
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“It’s truly awesome to be considered among some of the people who’ve already won this prestigious award,” said Saliers in accepting the award. “We need folk music now more than ever. This Folk Alliance is a group that honors diversity, equity, inclusion and access for all. Folk music is the music of truth-telling. Amy and I are, especially in this time, particularly honored to accept this award.”
Bandmate Ray added, “Please stand up with us and make your voice be heard in these times. Gather together with other people. Raise your voice. Stand up strong. Day by day, song by song, we can make this world a better place.
Lifetime achievement awards were also granted to Lesley Riddle, the Black musician who gathered songs for the Carter Family with patriarch A.P. Carter, and Songlines, the magazine that covers global roots music and is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Crys Matthews won the 2024 artist of the year award, her second IFMA. Susan Werner won the 2024 album of the year award for Halfway to Houston. Song of the year went to “$20 Bill (for George Floyd),” written by Tom Prasada-Rao and performed by Dan Navarro and Janiva Magness.
In accepting the award, Navarro said, “Over 100 of us recorded a version of that song in 2020, but because of the impact and the challenges of the pandemic, it never really had a proper release and we decided we would do something about that.”
The Clearwater Award is presented to a festival that prioritizes environmental stewardship and demonstrates public leadership in sustainable event production. This year’s award went to the River Roads Festival in Easthampton, Mass.
The Spirit of Folk Awards are presented to people and organizations actively involved in the promotion and preservation of folk music. Spirit of Folk Awards were presented to:
* Tom Power, Canadian musician and broadcaster, best known as the host of Q on CBC Radio One and a member of the folk band, The Dardanelles.
* Alice Randall, a trailblazer in folk and country music, whose songs have been recorded by such artists as Johnny Cash, and founder of production company Midsummer Music.
* Longtime Folk Alliance region Midwest pillar Annie Capps.
* Quebec’s Innu Nikamu festival, which has been committed to the promotion and preservation of Indigenous culture for more than 30 years.
In accepting her award, Randall said, “In My Black Country, I tell the story of climbing out of the hell of being raped by holding on to the sound of John Prine singing ‘Angel From Montgomery.’ I write about discovering the Joan Baez Ballad Book, a double album set of English, Irish and Scottish folk songs that became my stepping stones to joy after trauma. I owe my sanity to folk music. For the past 40 years I worked writing folk songs that I hoped would help people get to joy after trauma.
“In 2024 Oh Boy Records, John Prine’s label, put out the My Black Country album featuring some of the greatest folk singers and pickers of our time including Rhiannon Giddens and Leyla McCalla,” she continued. “On the new album, country charting songs were stripped of pop productions that erased Black characters and muted political intent. My songs were restored to their folk roots. My book My Black Country is about the Black folk, including Black folk musicians, who made country country. I accept this award in honor of ‘Traditional’ and my father who long ago asked me a question I will now ask you, ‘What you bet ‘Traditional’ was a Colored Gal?’”
Fellow Spirit of Folk Award recipient Power said, “This means an awful lot to me … As someone who cares a lot about the traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador, I stand on the shoulders of the giants of the folks who preserved the music long before me … I am so unbelievably proud to work for the CBC. … At a time both in Canada and in the United States and all over the world that public broadcasting is being brought into question — questions about defunding, questions of whether or not we should exist — I could never be prouder to be part of an organization that aims to tell the stories of Canadians to other Canadians.”
The People’s Voice Award, which is presented to an individual who unabashedly embraces social and political commentary in their creative work and public careers, was awarded to Gina Chavez.
OKAN, the women-led, Afro-Cuban roots and jazz duo, were honored with The Rising Tide Award. The Rising Tide Award celebrates emergent artists of any age who inspire others by embodying the values and ideals of the folk community through their creative work, community role, and public voice.
FAI members submitted recordings in the best-of-the-year categories (song, album, and artist). New recordings released between Oct. 1, 2023 and Sept. 30, 2024 were eligible.
Here are the nominations in the three “Best of 2024” categories, with winners marked, followed by a list of this year’s special award honorees.
Artist of the Year
Flamy GrantSarah JaroszKaïa KaterNick LoweWINNER: Crys MatthewsAllison Russell
Album of the Year
Sierra Ferrell, Trail of Flowers (Rounder Records)The Heart Collectors, The Space Between (Spins the Gold Records)Kaïa Kater, Strange Medicine (Free Dirt Records)Aoife O’Donovan, All My Friends (Yep Roc Records)Ordinary Elephant – Ordinary Elephant (Berkalin Records)WINNER: Susan Werner, Halfway to Houston (self-released)
Song of the Year
“Tenzin Sings with Nightingales,” written by Tenzin Choegyal, performed by Tenzin Choegyal and Michael Askill“How I Long for Peace,” written by Peggy Seeger, performed by Rhiannon Giddens, Crys Matthews, and the Resistance Revival Chorus“Woman Who Pays,” written and performed Connie KaldorWINNER: “$20 Bill (for George Floyd),” written by Tom Prasada-Rao, performed by Dan Navarro & Janiva Magness“Ukrainian Now,” written and performed by Tom Paxton & John McCutcheon“Love Letters,” written by Julian Taylor, Tyler James Ellis, performed by Julian Taylor
Lifetime Achievement Award – Living: Indigo Girls
Lifetime Achievement Award – Legacy: Lesley Riddle
Lifetime Achievement Award – Business: Songlines Magazine
People’s Voice: Gina Chavez
Rising Tide: OKAN
Clearwater Award: River Roads Festival (Easthampton, Mass.)
Spirit of Folk: Tom Power, Alice Randall, Annie Capps, Innu Nikamu festival
Folk Radio DJ Hall of Fame Inductees: Archie Fisher (BBC Scotland), Mary Sue Twohy (SIRIUS XM), Taylor Caffery (WRKF-FM, Baton Rouge, La.), Matthew Finch (posthumous, KUNM-FM, Albuquerque, N.M.), Chuck Wentworth (posthumous, WRIU-FM, Rhode Island)
Cynthia Erivo is set to host 2025 Tony Awards on Sunday, June 8. The ceremony will return to Radio City Music Hall in New York City for the first time since 2022. It will broadcast live to both coasts on CBS and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S.
“I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor,” Erivo said in a statement. “I am looking forward to ushering the theater community at large through a night that celebrates the wonderful performances we have witnessed throughout the year. I hope I can rise to the occasion.”
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This is Erivo’s first time hosting the Tonys, where she was a winner in 2016 for her lead role in The Color Purple. Ariana DeBose, also a Tony winner, hosted the Tonys the last three years. This will be the fifth year in a row that a woman of color has hosted the Tonys. Audra McDonald did the honors in 2021.
Erivo, 38, is the star of Wicked, which has become the highest-grossing film adapted from a Broadway musical. Erivo is Oscar-nominated for best actress for her role in Wicked, though she is not expected to win when the awards are presented on March 2. (Rumors persist that she and co-star Ariana Grande may be enticed to perform on the show.) It’s Erivo’s third Oscar nod, following dual nods (best actress and best original song) five year ago for Harriet.
In addition to her Tony win, Erivo has won a Grammy and a Daytime Emmy, both for projects related to The Color Purple.
“Cynthia is a remarkable talent and with her deep roots in the theater community, we are honored to have her host this year’s Tony Awards on CBS,” Mackenzie Mitchell, vp of specials at CBS, said in a statement.
Nominations for this year’s Tony Awards will be announced on Thursday, May 1.
The Tony Awards are produced in collaboration with Tony Award Productions, a joint venture of the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, and White Cherry Entertainment. Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss are executive producers and showrunners for White Cherry Entertainment. Weiss will serve as director.
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Timothée Chalametcould become the youngest best actor winner at the March 2 ceremony.
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Selena Gomez, one of the stars of Emilia Pérez; second-generation comedy star Ben Stiller; and Joe Alwyn, one of the stars of The Brutalist (though probably still best-known by many as Taylor Swift’s ex) have been added to the list of presenters for the 2025 Oscars. The show will air live on ABC and stream live on Hulu on Sunday, March 2, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
Other newly announced presenters are Sterling K. Brown, Willem Dafoe, Ana de Armas, Lily-Rose Depp, Goldie Hawn, Connie Nielsen and Oprah Winfrey.
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Previously announced presenters are Halle Berry, Penélope Cruz, Elle Fanning, Whoopi Goldberg, Scarlett Johansson, John Lithgow, Amy Poehler, June Squibb and Bowen Yang – as well as last year’s four acting winners: Cillian Murphy, Emma Stone, Robert Downey Jr. and Da’Vine Joy Randolph.
Hawn, Berry, Goldberg and Cruz are also past Oscar winners. In 2001, for her role in Monster’s Ball, Berry became the first Black actress to win best actress. These other stars won for best supporting actress – Hawn for Cactus Flower in 1970, Goldberg for Ghost in 1991 and Cruz for Vicky Cristina Barcelona in 2009.
In 2011, Winfrey received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
Alwyn has had numerous film credits leading up to The Brutalist. He also appeared in The Favourite (2018), Boy Erased (2018), Mary Queen of Scots (2018) and Harriet (2019), among others.
Nick Offerman will serve as the announcer for this year’s Oscar telecast. Conan O’Brien will host for the first time.
The 97th Oscars will be held at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will air live on ABC and stream live on Hulu. The official live red-carpet show will air at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.
Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan are executive producers of the 2025 Oscars. Kapoor is also showrunner. He was also one of three executive producers for the Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, along with Ben Winston and Jesse Collins.
Paquita la del Barrio will be honored at Premio Lo Nuestro 2025 with an emotional performance by Pepe Aguilar and his children Leonardo y Ángela Aguilar, Billboard can exclusively announce Wednesday (Feb. 19).
The iconic Mexican ranchera singer, known for denouncing macho culture and attitudes in songs like “Tres Veces Te Engañé,” “Rata de Dos Patas” and “Las Rodilleras,” died this week at her home in Veracruz, Mexico, at age 77.
“Honoring the legacy of Paquita la del Barrio for me is a great responsibility and a true privilege. Her voice was an echo in the soul of our people, and her courage in telling stories paved the way for many generations,” Pepe Aguilar said in a statement, adding that he hopes “that this tribute is as significant with the depth of her spirit.”
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“Paquita la del Barrio taught us that a woman’s voice should never be silenced — she always sang what she felt, without fear and without excuses,” added Ángela Aguilar. “I had the incredible honor of opening her concerts when I was younger, witnessing firsthand the magic she created on stage. Having her as part of [my family’s show] Jaripeo Sin Fronteras was just as special — a true testament to the impact she has had on generations of artists.”
Meanwhile, Leonardo Aguilar expressed: “All my life I have been surrounded by powerful women — whose strength, resilience and passion have shaped who I am. Paquita la del Barrio personified that strength, breaking barriers and giving a voice to those who needed it most.”
With a career spanning over five decades, Paquita la del Barrio was an idol in popular music. In 2011, she received the Billboard Regional Mexican Music Award “La Voz,” and 10 years later, in 2021, she was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Billboard Latin Music Awards for her exceptional career.
Born in Veracruz, Mexico, Francisca Viveros Barradas (her real name) discovered her powerful voice as a child while singing at school festivals. In the 1970s, she formed the duo Las Golondrinas with her sister Viola, and in 1984, she released her debut album, El Barrio de los Faroles, as Paquita la del Barrio. Since then, she recorded over 30 albums, which sold more than 30 million copies, with hits that also include “Las Mujeres Mandan,” “La Última Parada,” “Me Saludas a la Tuya,” “Soltero Maduro, Chiquito” and “Hombres Malvados,” among others.
In its 37th edition, the Premio Lo Nuestro ceremony will be broadcast live on Thursday (Feb. 20) starting at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on Univision, UNIMÁS and ViX. Co-hosted by Laura Pausini, Thalia, and Alejandro Espinoza, it will feature performances by Becky G and Carín León, who lead this year’s list of nominees, as well as Shakira, Grupo Frontera, Marc Anthony, Will Smith and many more.
Central Cee, Ayra Starr and Vybz Kartel were all winners at the MOBO Awards (Music Of Black Origin) in Newcastle, England, on Tuesday evening (Feb. 18). The ceremony honors homegrown and international artists from diverse scenes including hip-hop, R&B, grime, jazz, and Afrobeats.
First held in 1996, the MOBOs were founded by Kanya King and Andy Ruffell to provide representation for Black artists at a dedicated ceremony. The awards were held every year up until 2017. Following a brief hiatus, they returned in 2021 and 2022, but took a fallow year in 2023 and resumed once again in 2024.
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Central Cee scooped the best male act prize for the second year in a row, and gave the Londoner his seventh MOBO trophy overall. The win puts him level with Stormzy as the most-decorated UK rapper in the Awards’ history.
British-Nigerian Afrobeats star Darkoo was victorious in the best female act category, earning the 23-year-old her debut MOBO Award. She also performed at the ceremony alongside Spice, Krept & Konan, Odeal, Nova Twins, Bashy and more.
The ceremony was hosted by comedian Eddie Kadi and Love Island star Indiyah Polack and broadcast live on YouTube. Highlights from the ceremony will air on BBC One on Friday evening (Feb. 21).
There were also wins in major categories for Bashy, who scooped best album for Being Poor Is Expensive, which featured in Billboard U.K.’s albums of the year list in December. Song of the year went to Darkoo for her Dess Dior collaboration “Favourite Girl,” while Benin-born, Nigeria-raised Ayra Starr won best international artist (the first African female to win the prize) and best African music act (the first female to win for 16 years).
Vybz Kartel won the honorary MOBO impact award, which in recent years has been awarded to pop trio Sugababes and boxer Frank Bruno. Ezra Collective prevailed in the best jazz category for the third time in their career; the London group are nominated for four awards at this year’s BRIT Awards on March 1.
In recent years the MOBOs has broadened its categories to recognise the contributions made by Black artists to the U.K’s rock scene and its club culture. At 2025’s ceremony, rock duo Alt Blk Era won the best alternative act, while DJ and producer TSHA picked up best dance act.
See the full winners of the MOBO Awards 2025 below.
Best male act
BashyWINNER: Central CeeD-Block EuropeGhettsNemzzzSampha
Best female act
Cleo Sol
WINNER: Darkoo
Jorja Smith
Little Simz
Nia Archives
Raye
Album of the year
WINNER: Bashy – Being Poor Is ExpensiveCleo Sol – GoldGhetts – On Purpose, With PurposeJorja Smith – Falling Or FlyingSampha – LahaiSkrapz – Reflection
Song of the year
Central Cee Feat. Lil Baby – “Band4band”
Chase & Status, Stormzy – “Backbone”
WINNER: Darkoo Feat. Dess Dior – “Favourite Girl”
Jordan Adetunji – “Kehlani”
Leostaytrill – “Pink Lemonade”
Odeal – “Soh-soh”
Best newcomer
Chy Cartier
Elmiene
Fimiguerrero
Flowerovlove
Jordan Adetunji
Len
Leostaytrill
Myles Smith
WINNER: Odeal
Pozer
Video of the year
Meekz – “Mini Me’s” (Directed By Kc Locke)
WINNER: Mnelia – “My Man” (Directed By Femi Bello)
Raye – “Genesis” (Directed By Otis Dominique & Raye)
Sampha – “Only” (Directed By Dexter Navy)
Skepta – “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” (Directed By Steveo)
Unknown T Feat. Loyle Carner – “Hocus Pocus” (Directed By Felix Brady)
Best R&B/soul act
Cleo Sol
Elmiene
Flo
Jaz Karis
Jorja Smith
Nippa
WINNER: Odeal
Sasha Keable
Shae Universe
Sinead Harnett
Best alternative music act
WINNER: ALT BLK ERA
Bob Vylan
Hak Baker
Kid Bookie
Native James
Spider
Best grime act
Chip
D Double E
Duppy
Kruz Leone
Manga Saint Hilare
WINNER: Scorcher
Best hip hop act
WINNER: Bashy
Cristale
Headie One
Nines
Potter Payper
Skrapz
Best drill act
163MargsCentral CeeHeadie OneKairo KeyzK-trapWINNER: Pozer
Best international act
AsakeWINNER: Ayra StarrBeyoncéGloRillaKendrick LamarLattoMegan Thee StallionNicki MinajTemsTyla
Best performance in a TV show/film
Angela Wynter As Yolande Trueman In EastendersCaroline Chikezie As Noma In Power Book II: GhostDiane Parish As Denise Fox In EastendersDionne Brown As Queenie In QueenieGhetts As Krazy In SupacellWINNER: Jacob Anderson As Louis In Interview With The VampireJasmine Jobson As Jaq In Top BoyJosh Tedeku As Tazer In SupacellKingsley Ben-adir As Bob Marley In Bob Marley: One LoveTosin Cole As Michael In Supacell
Best media personality
WINNER: 90’s Baby ShowAJ OduduChuckie OnlineCraig MitchHenrie KwushueMadame JoyceMicah RichardsSpecs GonzalezThe Receipts PodcastZeze Millz
Best African music act
Asake (Nigeria)
WINNER: Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
Bnxn & Ruger (Nigeria)
King Promise (Ghana)
Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
Rema (Nigeria)
Shallipopi (Nigeria)
Tems (Nigeria)
Tyla (South Africa)
Uncle Waffles (South Africa)
Best Caribbean music act
Popcaan
WINNER: Shenseea
Skillibeng
Spice
Valiant
Yg Marley
Best jazz act
Amy Gadiaga
Blue Lab Beats
Ego Ella May
WINNER: Ezra Collective
Kokoroko
Yussef Dayes
Best electronic/dance act
Eliza Rose
Nia Archives
Pinkpantheress
Salute
Shygirl
WINNER: Tsha
Best producer
Ceebeaats
Inflo
WINNER: Juls
M1onthebeat
P2j
Sammy Soso
Best gospel act
WINNER: Annatoria
Imrhan
Limoblaze
Reblah
Still Shadey
Volney Morgan & New Ye
Brat Summer has extended deep into awards season. Charli XCX’s Brat is competing for a Brit Award for British album of the year on Saturday (March 1), just weeks after it competed in the Grammy race for album of the year. Brat is the first album to be nominated for the top album honor on […]
On May 8, the Academy of Country Music Awards will return to Texas for its milestone 60th anniversary show, to be held live from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas (home of the Dallas Cowboys), streaming exclusively on Prime Video and hosted by Country Music Hall of Famer Reba McEntire. Starting today (Tuesday, Feb. 18), fans can purchase tickets to attend the milestone 60th anniversary ACM Awards.
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Starting today, pre-sale tickets are available for ACM A-List subscribers. To gain access to presale tickets before they go on sale to the general public, sign up for the ACM A-List free email newsletter to receive a pre-sale code that will grant access to purchase tickets in advance of the public on-sale.
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General on-sale tickets will become available to the public at 11 a.m. ET on Friday, Feb. 21 through SeatGeek.
“This year’s ACM Awards is a celebration sixty years in the making, and we plan to make it one of the biggest and best shows yet!” ACM CEO Damon Whiteside said in a statement. “The 60th ACM Awards will mark our third consecutive year at Ford Center in The Star District, home of the Dallas Cowboys in Frisco, Texas, and we can’t wait to bring the ACM Awards back to the loyal Country Music fan base in Texas, and to those watching all around the globe on Amazon Prime Video. With Reba at the helm as our host, we’ll be commemorating the legends of Country Music while honoring the biggest and brightest stars of today.”
“The bar has been set very high during the first two years of hosting Country Music’s Party of the Year,” added Dallas Cowboys owner, president and general manager Jerry Jones. “I think we all agree, though, that the upcoming Academy of Country Music Awards’ 60th show is going to exceed that bar. Having an amazing icon of music and entertainment in Reba back for another year as host just sets this up to be one of the best ever and the Ford Center will be home to Country Music’s biggest and brightest stars once again.”
The ACM Awards have been held at the Ford Center since 2023. Last year’s show, which McEntire also hosted, featured 18 performances from 19 artists, including Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani, Chris Stapleton and Dua Lipa, Cody Johnson, Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan, Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne, Parker McCollum, Post Malone, Reba McEntire, Thomas Rhett and Tigirlily Gold.
Last year, Wilson and Stapleton earned some of the evening’s top honors, as Wilson was named entertainer of the year and female artist of the year (and also took home the music event of the year honor for “Save Me” with Jelly Roll), while Stapleton picked up male artist of the year, album of the year (for Higher) and artist-songwriter of the year wins.
More details surrounding this year’s nominees, performances and additional ACM events will be announced in the coming months.
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