Habitually, female artists have faced challenges in achieving equal recognition and opportunities compared to their male counterparts. The renowned Headies awards have also joined in the absurdity, disrespecting the females in the music industry.
The category of the best female artist received less prominence at the just concluded Headies Awards as the category was not announced on stage. Ayra Starr who beat Tems, Tiwa Savage, and Simi to the best female award took to her Twitter account with palpable rage, “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
Her rage has sparked reactions from netizens with many of them condemning the organizers and supporting Ayra’s claim. From Nungua Burnaboy, “Tiwa has said this year after year!! I’m glad Ayra is saying it too. The disrespect is just too much. They announced some people who didn’t bother to show up on stage but not Best Female Artist…drag them. Go Ayra!”
Another netizen also expressed his displeasure, “Very apt. We were never raised to settle for less. That award reeks of favoritism and unprofessional leaders. Most importantly, why move the award to the states? For validation?”.
Many female artists have been breaking boundaries and achieving impeccable feats in the music industry. Their hard work, talent, and dedication should not be undermined. Ayra’s tweet punctuates the importance of ensuring that female-based categories are given equal recognition and respect, promoting a fair and honest music industry.
