Fola, Shoday, Mavo, others nominated for 2026 Headies Next Rated

The Nigerian music scene is buzzing with anticipation as five emerging stars have been nominated for the highly coveted Next Rated category at the 18th Headies Awards. Fola, Shoday, Mavo, Fido, and Llona are vying for the award, which celebrates artists making a significant impact and poised for future success. This year's ceremony is set to make history as it will be held in Canada, marking an international expansion for the prestigious awards. The nominees for the Next Rated category represent a diverse range of sounds and styles, showcasing the vibrant evolution of Afrobeats and contemporary Nigerian music. Fola appears to be a frontrunner, having secured multiple nominations beyond just Next Rated. His songs, including 'You,' have earned him nods in Afrobeats Single of the Year and Best Recording of the Year categories. Furthermore, his album 'Catharsis' is nominated for Best R&B Album, and he's also recognized in the Digital Artiste of the Year category, making him one of the most nominated artists of the ceremony. Shoday has gained attention for his distinctive sound and collaborations, earning his nomination after making a mark with 'Hey Jago,' a track that also received a Song of the Year nomination. Mavo, an Afrobeat artist, is recognized for his growing presence, while Fido has established himself with tracks like 'Joy Is Coming.' Llona rounds out the shortlist, recognized for his growing following and potential impact on the music landscape.