Moliy Makes History: First Ghanaian Artist to Perform at BET Awards

Ghanaian singer Moliy has etched her name in music history, becoming the first artiste from Ghana to grace the stage at the prestigious BET Awards, delivering a captivating performance of her hit “Shake It to the Max (FLY).”
A Historic Night in Los Angeles
The atmosphere at the Peacock Theater was electric on June 9, 2025, as Moliy delivered a truly show-stopping performance. Captivating an international audience, she mesmerized with her smash hit, “Shake It to the Max (FLY).” The track, known for its infectious rhythm and vibrant energy, was perfectly suited for the global platform. Moliy was not alone in this historic moment; she was seamlessly joined by her talented collaborator, Silent Addy, as the duo collectively injected a potent dose of vibrant Afrobeats energy into the star-studded event. Their synergy on stage was palpable, creating an unforgettable spectacle that resonated deeply with the diverse audience.
Viral clips of the performance quickly flooded social media platforms, showcasing Moliy in a truly striking ensemble – a shimmering golden-green dress that perfectly complemented her stage presence. The digital snippets also captured the immense excitement from the crowd, with fans enthusiastically waving both Ghanaian and Jamaican flags, a testament to the broad appeal of her music and the diverse cultural connections she embodies. This outpouring of support underscored the significance of her appearance, highlighting the pride and joy felt by Ghanaians and lovers of African music worldwide.
Building on Momentum: From Accra to LA
Moliy’s BET Awards debut follows closely on the heels of another electrifying performance just weeks prior. She had delivered a memorable set at the 2025 Ghana Music Awards in Accra, an event that celebrated the best of Ghanaian music. Her stellar showing at the local awards ceremony undoubtedly served as a powerful prelude to her international breakthrough, demonstrating her consistent artistry and rising prominence within the music scene. This sequence of high-profile performances illustrates her upward trajectory and the growing recognition of her talent both domestically and internationally.
A Triumphant Acknowledgment
Celebrating her monumental achievement, Moliy took to social media to share her triumph with her fans and followers. She posted a jubilant video, accompanied by a caption that encapsulated the weight of the moment: “When you’re the first Ghanaian to perform at the BETs.” This simple yet powerful statement resonated deeply, sparking an outpouring of congratulatory messages and widespread appreciation for her pioneering spirit. Her groundbreaking appearance is not just a personal milestone; it marks a significant leap forward for Ghanaian music, signifying its increasing penetration and influence on the world stage. It serves as an inspiration for aspiring Ghanaian artists, demonstrating that with talent and perseverance, global recognition is within reach.
Ayra Starr Clinches Best International Act, Reflecting African Excellence
While Moliy made history with her performance, the BET Awards also celebrated another African powerhouse. Nigerian Afropop star Ayra Starr clinched the coveted Best International Act award, emerging as the sole African winner of the night in a highly competitive category. This marks her first BET Award, a significant achievement that places her name among an elite and prestigious list of past African winners, including global sensations like Burna Boy, Tems, and Tyla.
Ayra Starr’s victory was hard-fought, as she triumphed over a formidable lineup of talented nominees from across the continent. Her fellow contenders included Black Sherif (Ghana), a formidable force in contemporary Ghanaian music; Uncle Waffles (Eswatini), the celebrated DJ and producer who has taken the Amapiano scene by storm; and her compatriot, Rema (Nigeria), another global Afrobeats phenomenon. Ayra Starr’s win not only highlights her individual artistry and growing influence but also underscores the continued rise and diverse excellence of African music on the global platform. It reinforces the narrative that African artists are not just participating but are actively setting trends and winning top accolades on the international stage.
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