Los Angeles, USA – Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has etched her name in history, securing her first-ever BET Award for Best International Act at a dazzling ceremony held Monday night at the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles. The “Rush” hitmaker’s triumph marks a significant milestone not only for her burgeoning career but also for the soaring influence of Afrobeats on the global stage.
In a keenly contested category, Starr emerged victorious over a formidable lineup that included fellow Nigerian star Rema and South Africa’s vocal powerhouse, Tyla. This long-awaited win comes after previous nominations, making this victory particularly sweet for the Mavin Records signee.
While the night celebrated her groundbreaking achievement in the international category, Ayra Starr was not as fortunate in her other two nominations. She gracefully conceded the Best New Artist award to the talented Leon Thomas and the coveted Best Female R&B/Pop Artist title to the reigning SZA.
Another notable Nigerian presence at the awards saw Tems, a multiple nominee in the BET Her category, ultimately lose out to Summer Walker’s poignant “Heart of a Woman.”
The evening’s undeniable titan was American rapper Kendrick Lamar, who delivered a dominant performance, sweeping an impressive five trophies from his ten nominations. Lamar’s monumental wins included Album of the Year for ‘GNX,’ Best Male Hip Hop Artist, the highly coveted Video of the Year for his explosive track ‘Not Like Us,’ Best Collaboration for ‘Luther’ with SZA, and Video Director of the Year, which he shared with Dave Free for ‘Not Like Us.’ His remarkable haul underscored his artistic prowess and cultural impact.
A Glance at the 2025 BET Awards Major Winners:
- Album of the Year: ‘GNX’ — Kendrick Lamar
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Chris Brown
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Group: Future & Metro Boomin
- Best Collaboration: ‘Luther’ — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Doechii
- Video of the Year: ‘Not Like Us’ – Kendrick Lamar
- Video Director of the Year: Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
- Best New Artist: Leon Thomas
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award: ‘Rain Down on Me’ — GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
- Viewer’s Choice Award: ‘Residuals’ — Chris Brown
- BET Her: ‘Heart of a Woman’ — Summer Walker
- Best International Act: Ayra Starr
- Best New International Act: TXC (South Africa)
Ayra Starr’s victory at the BET Awards is a testament to her unique sound and the growing global embrace of Nigerian music, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
