Headies Awards Introduces Groundbreaking Category for Soundtrack of the Year
Written by MAX FM on March 7, 2025
Headies Awards Introduces Groundbreaking Category for Soundtrack of the Year
The 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Awards is set to make waves with the introduction of an exciting new category: Soundtrack of the Year. This innovative addition aims to celebrate original songs crafted specifically for films and TV series, highlighting the powerful fusion of music and cinema in Nollywood.
Headies 2025
Honoring the Best in Nollywood Soundtracks
This non-voting category shines a spotlight on six remarkable Nollywood productions that have delivered compelling soundtracks, showcasing the artistry involved in creating music that enhances storytelling on screen.
Nominees for Soundtrack of the Year
Among the standout nominees is “Eledumare” from Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre, performed by Teledalase. Also in the running is “Lose to Gain” from Breath of Life, composed by the talented Kaline. Fans of collaboration will appreciate “Emotions,” featuring the powerhouse duo of Tiwa Savage and Asa, created for the project Water and Garri.
Other notable contenders include the title track “Kill Boro” by Native Filmworks and Wizard Chan, and “Orisa” by Beriola from the film Orisa. Rounding out the list is the evocative soundtrack for A Tribe Called Judah, produced by TCJ and Abbey Wonder.
A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration
The introduction of the Soundtrack of the Year category at the Headies Awards not only recognizes the exceptional talent within the Nollywood film industry but also emphasizes the vital role that music plays in elevating cinematic experiences. This groundbreaking move is sure to inspire artists and filmmakers alike, encouraging even more innovative collaborations in the future.
Stay tuned for the Headies Awards ceremony, where the winners will be announced, and celebrate the incredible contributions of music to film and television!
Emotions – Tiwa Savage & Asa (Water and Garri)
Eledumare – Teledalase (Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre)
Tribe Called Judah Soundtrack – TCJ & Abbey Wonder (A Tribe Called Judah)
Kill Boro – Native Filmworks & Wizard Chan (Kill Boro)
Lose to Gain – Kaline (Breath of Life)
Orisa – Beriola (Orisa)
Native Filmworks & Wizard Chan – Native Filmworks, the production house behind Kill Boro, collaborated with Wizard Chan, a past Headies winner in the Best Alternative Song category. The artist has released albums such as The Messenger and Time Traveller.
Teledalase Ogundipe is a talented Nigerian R&B singer-songwriter celebrated for her introspective lyrics and soulful melodies. Her impressive discography features notable projects including The Bad Wife Has No Tongue, Peace, Taste of Life, and Orun O Gbeke.
Kaline Akinkugbe is a versatile pianist, singer, and composer known for her original scores in Nollywood films, including Breath of Life and Banana Island Ghost. Her own musical creations feature captivating tracks such as For Me, Here I Am, and Tell You of My Love.
Beriola (Khalid Ayanshina) is a dynamic singer-songwriter blending afrobeats and highlife influences in his music. His notable tracks include Africa, Buoda Alakori, and Maami. In 2023, he released an EP titled Beca, showcasing his unique sound and artistic vision.
Tiwa Savage & Asa – Tiwa Savage is one of Nigeria’s most acclaimed artists, seamlessly blending afrobeats, R&B, and pop in her music. Asa, renowned for her soulful sound, boasts a remarkable legacy of hits, including Jailer, Fire on the Mountain, and Bibanke. Together, they create a powerful musical synergy that resonates with fans.
TCJ & Abbey Wonder – TCJ is the production team behind A Tribe Called Judah, while Abbey Wonder is a distinguished music producer known for tracks like Komasava, Regular, and Ride or Die.
The Films Behind the Soundtracks
- Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre
Directed by Kunle Afolayan, this Netflix series continues the story of Saro and Arolake. Now a ghost, Saro faces an afterlife where he must undo the resurrection of 20 souls he previously brought back. - Breath of Life
Directed by BB Sasore, this drama follows Timi, a former clergyman and decorated cadet, whose life spirals after a tragic family loss, propelling him down a dangerous path of revenge. - Kill Boro
A film by Obayuwana Courage, it explores the struggles of Elijah, a young boy trapped in an abusive household, who seeks refuge with a notorious gang leader. - Orisa
This Yoruba epic, directed by Odunlade Adekola, centers on King Oba Adefolarin as he battles supernatural forces and political threats to maintain control of his kingdom. - Water and Garri
Directed by Meji Alabi and starring Tiwa Savage, the film tells the story of a fashion designer returning to Africa after a decade abroad, prompted by a personal tragedy that compels her to rediscover her roots. - A Tribe Called Judah
This film by Funke Akindele and Adeoluwa Owu follows a single mother raising five sons from different ethnic backgrounds as they navigate family, culture, and identity.
The winner of the Soundtrack of the Year award will be revealed at the Headies Awards ceremony on April 5, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, marking the event’s return home after two years in the United States.
