The BET Awards 2023 witnessed a bittersweet outcome for Nigerian artists, with rising star Asake missing out on the Best International New Act award, which was ultimately claimed by Cameroonian vocalist Libianca.
While Nigerian sensation Burna Boy made history by securing the Best International Act award for the fourth consecutive time, no other Nigerian artist could join him on the winner’s podium.
Libianca’s victory in the Best International New Act category at the BET Awards 2023 has ignited a wave of reactions across Nigerian social media platforms, with many expressing their dissatisfaction and labeling it as “daylight robbery.”
Asake, a talented artist signed under the YBNL label, was one of the contenders for the coveted award.
However, his loss to Libianca has triggered a debate among fans and industry observers.
Some have speculated that Asake’s defeat could be attributed to his predominantly singing in Yoruba, his indigenous language.
The controversy surrounding Libianca’s win has highlighted the subjective nature of awards and the various factors that come into play during the selection process.
While fans of Asake argue that his music transcends language barriers and should not hinder his chances of winning, others believe that international recognition often favors artists who cater to a wider, more global audience.
The outcome of this year’s Best International New Act category has sparked a wider conversation about the impact of language and cultural diversity on award shows.
Reactions from Netizens…
@___bbr007 said; “What did you expect? English songs will always thrive more than indigenous songs cause the majority of the world understands English, and people can really connect with Labianca song on different levels compared to Asake songs.”
@mikemuller170 wrote; “Well deserved no be everybody like noise.”
@bahdt_girl_annie1 said; “She dey sing song way everybody understand so I’m not surprised.”
@damijo_charmlv wrote; “You all should learn to congratulate people, not everything you will say it was rigged, she deserves it abeg, let her breath go baby girl.”
@es.vee.tea said; “Not surprised and this song blew up on social media as well.”
@roy_billion said; “She sings with English, so I’m not surprised.”
@___godwithus said; “How many of you voted for ASAKE? Even ASAKE self no post for him page. How fans wan take know say nomination dey somewhere…”
@big_name_prince wrote; “I bet everyone on here havent heard her name before till today award shows are trash.
@rhi.ley16 said: “Asake no reach. Not be to dey sing Yoruba amapiano.”
@mastertrizzy_ wrote; “I tot they stop giving backstage award.”