The stage is set, the lights are primed, and the anticipation is electric as The Headies gears up for its 17th edition — with a powerhouse lineup of performers who are redefining the soundscape of Nigerian music.
Among the headline acts confirmed to thrill fans are street-hop sensation Shallipopi, soul maestro Chike, and entertainer-turned-hitmaker Nasboi.
These aren’t just performers; they’re game-changers, each carving a unique lane while snagging top nominations in this year’s coveted categories.
Shallipopi, the self-styled “Pluto President,” has taken the charts by storm with “Cast”, a pulsating collaboration with rap dynamo Odumodublvck. The track’s success has earned him nods in two major categories: Best Rap Single and Best Collaboration. With his gritty bars and raw street flavor, Shallipopi’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric — and his Headies performance promises to be just as explosive.
Then there’s Chike, the vocal powerhouse whose ballads melt hearts and dominate playlists. His emotionally-charged duet “Egwu” with the late Mohbad has earned a spot in the Best Collaboration category, touching fans nationwide with its haunting tribute and soulful resonance. Onstage, Chike is expected to deliver a performance that’s both stirring and unforgettable.
Bringing an entirely different kind of energy is Nasboi, the comic-turned-crooner who has defied the odds to earn his place among Nigeria’s hottest rising stars. His transition from skits to soundtracks has not gone unnoticed — landing him a spot in the hotly contested Next Rated category. Nasboi’s story is one of reinvention, and his live act is bound to mirror that bold transformation.
As the countdown begins, The Headies once again proves why it remains the gold standard in recognizing Nigeria’s finest — not just for their hits, but for their hustle. With this eclectic trio leading the charge, the 17th edition is shaping up to be a celebration of evolution, excellence, and electric performances.
