The 2023 Headies Awards held at the Cobb Energy Centre in Atlanta, USA, witnessed a moment of controversy as Nigerian music sensation, Ayra Starr, the winner of the ‘Best Female Artiste’ category, voiced her dissatisfaction with the award ceremony’s decision not to present the accolade on stage.
Ayra Starr emerged winner in the highly competitive category, defeating other notable artistes like Tems, Tiwa Savage and Simi. However, her celebration was tinged with disappointment as the prestigious award was not presented in front of the live audience and viewers worldwide.
Taking to her Twitter account to share her sentiments, Ayra Starr minced no words, saying, “I will never be grateful for winning a category that wasn’t even deemed fit to be announced on stage! Best female artist na beans? We work hard, every single one of us! I’ve seen Tiwa record 4 hit songs in the same night, Tems breathes and lives for music, we didn’t deserve such nonchalance! Nigeria, you didn’t raise me to settle for less.”
I will never be grateful for winning a category that wasn’t even deemed fit to be announced on stage ! Best female artist na beans ? We work hard, every single one of us ! I’ve seen Tiwa record 4 hit songs in the same night , Tems breaths and lives for music , we didn’t deserve…
— Celestial being (@ayrastarr) September 4, 2023
The incident has sparked a conversation in the music industry about the recognition and respect afforded to female artistes.
The Headies Awards, an event renowned for its celebration of African music excellence, may now face scrutiny and questions regarding their handling of gender equity in the industry.
