In a moment that capped his rapid rise through Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, BNXN, the artist previously known as Buju, emerged as the winner of the highly coveted Next Rated Award at the 2022 Headies. The award, often considered a gateway to superstardom in the Nigerian music industry, recognized BNXN’s breakout year and impressive contributions to the Afrobeats genre.
As part of the prize package, BNXN drove away in a 2022 Bentley Bentayga SUV, continuing a tradition of rewarding the winner of this category with a luxury vehicle—an upgrade from past years that typically featured more modest cars. The high-profile win was celebrated by fans, industry stakeholders, and fellow artists as a well-earned achievement for one of the fastest-rising stars in African music.
From Buju to BNXN: A Rebranding That Reinforced His Identity
Before attaining national acclaim, BNXN was known as Buju, an alias under which he released several fan-favorite tracks. However, in early 2022, the singer announced a name change to BNXN—pronounced “Benson”—explaining that he wanted to create a unique identity and avoid confusion with the Jamaican dancehall veteran also known as Buju Banton.
The name change came with renewed energy and clarity about his brand. BNXN’s music, a fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, and soulful melodies, resonated with listeners across demographics. Despite the shift in identity, fans embraced the new moniker, and BNXN continued to release hits, collaborate with top Nigerian acts, and win hearts both locally and internationally.
Consistent Growth Through Music and Features
BNXN’s path to the Headies stage was not accidental. His rise followed years of hard work, consistency, and a string of successful singles and collaborations. His music catalog boasts hits such as “Outside,” “Testimony,” “Kilometer,” and the emotionally driven “Sorry I’m Late” EP.
Beyond his solo projects, BNXN gained significant traction by lending his distinctive vocals to tracks by other major artists. His collaboration with LadiPoe on the chart-topping hit “Feeling” became an anthem across Nigeria and beyond, dominating radio airplay and streaming platforms. He also worked with top names like Wizkid on “Mood,” Timaya on “Cold Outside,” and Zlatan on “Spiritual.”
Each of these songs showcased BNXN’s unique ability to blend vulnerability with groove—an emotive, introspective style that sets him apart in an often party-centric industry.
A Historic Headies Ceremony in the U.S.
The 15th edition of the Headies Awards made history as the first to be held outside Nigeria, taking place in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The move marked the award show’s evolution into a global platform, aimed at celebrating African music on an international scale.
For BNXN, winning the Next Rated Award on foreign soil added an extra layer of prestige. The ceremony brought together artists, executives, and fans from around the world, offering him the opportunity to showcase his talent to a wider audience and affirm his place in Afrobeats’ new global chapter.
Dressed in a sleek outfit befitting a rising star, BNXN took to the stage to accept the award with gratitude. In his speech, he thanked his supporters, management team, and the Headies organizers. He also acknowledged the other nominees, saying the award reflected the growing talent pool in Nigeria’s ever-evolving music landscape.
A Lineage of Legends: The Weight of the Next Rated Title
Winning the Next Rated award places BNXN among an elite group of Nigerian artists who previously claimed the honor and went on to achieve massive success. Past winners include Wizkid, Davido, Rema, Mayorkun, Reekado Banks, and Tekno—all of whom are now household names across Africa and the world.
The award is more than a trophy; it’s a validation of potential and a forecast of future greatness. With the accompanying SUV prize, BNXN joins a class of artists whose careers accelerated significantly after the win. The moment symbolizes industry acknowledgment that BNXN is ready for the global stage.
Social Media and Industry Reactions
Following BNXN’s win, social media erupted with congratulatory messages. Hashtags like #BNXNNextRated, #Headies2022, and #BNXNWinningSeason trended for hours on Twitter and Instagram, as fans shared clips of his performance, award acceptance speech, and red-carpet appearance.
Several music industry heavyweights also expressed their pride. Olamide, Don Jazzy, and Fireboy DML were among those who posted celebratory messages, calling BNXN’s victory “well-deserved” and pointing to his work ethic, humility, and talent.
Music journalists and cultural commentators highlighted how BNXN represents a new wave of Nigerian musicians—lyrically rich, emotionally transparent, and deeply rooted in cultural expression. His win, they argued, could inspire other underground and independent acts to aim for mainstream breakthrough without compromising on substance.
Driving Into the Future: The Bentley Symbolism
While the Next Rated title is prestigious in itself, the presentation of a Bentley Bentayga as the prize added spectacle to BNXN’s victory. Worth millions of naira, the SUV is a symbol of luxury, success, and ambition—fitting for an artist ascending to global relevance.
BNXN posted pictures of himself with the car on his social media accounts, with captions reflecting both excitement and appreciation. Fans quickly turned the moment into memes and celebratory fan art, immortalizing the image of their favorite singer beside the Bentley as a defining symbol of his new era.
What Lies Ahead for BNXN?
With the Next Rated win behind him, BNXN now faces the challenge—and the opportunity—of building on his momentum. He has teased upcoming projects, including an international tour and another EP slated for release in late 2022 or early 2023.
The singer has also hinted at collaborations with artists from the U.K. and the U.S., suggesting that his sights are firmly set on breaking into more global markets. However, he remains committed to his roots, often stating in interviews that he wants to continue making music that represents his journey and resonates with Nigerians and Africans at large.
Conclusion: A Milestone Win for a Promising Star
BNXN’s triumph at the 2022 Headies Awards serves as both a reward for past excellence and a promise of even greater things to come. By winning the Next Rated Award and receiving a luxury SUV, he has officially crossed the threshold from emerging talent to leading voice.
In an era where Nigerian music is taking center stage globally, BNXN’s artistry, authenticity, and perseverance make him a fitting ambassador for the genre. As fans and industry insiders look to the future, all eyes remain on the talented singer who once went by Buju but now answers to a name destined for greatness.
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