GloRilla earns most nominations as an artist for 2025 NAACP Image Awards

The 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards are fast approaching, and one artist is stealing the spotlight: GloRilla. The Memphis rapper has earned the most nominations for this year’s event, with an impressive six nods across several prestigious categories. As one of hip-hop’s most exciting newcomers, GloRilla’s rise in 2024 has been meteoric. Her nominations for Outstanding Female Artist, Outstanding Hip-Hop/Rap Song, and Outstanding Album are a testament to her impact on the music industry.

Therefore, the awards ceremony will take place on February 22, 2025, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California. It will air live on BET and be simulcast on CBS. For those interested in the non-televised categories, they will be livestreamed on the Image Awards website on February 21. With GloRilla leading the nominations, this year’s ceremony is sure to be one to remember.

GloRilla: Dominance Of 2024

GloRilla’s 2024 was nothing short of a triumph. The rapper, whose real name is Gloria Woods, had an unforgettable year, dropping two major projects that captivated audiences worldwide. The first, Ehhthang Ehhthang, dropped in early 2024, followed by her highly anticipated debut album, Glorious, in October. Both releases showcased her versatility, creativity, and ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners across genres.

Her breakout hit “Wanna Be” featuring Megan Thee Stallion became an anthem, and her Grammy-nominated track “Yeah Glo” captured the attention of hip-hop fans and critics alike. GloRilla’s success was further solidified by the commercial success of Glorious, which debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 chart.

Furthermore, these achievements have earned her significant recognition in the form of six nominations at the 56th NAACP Image Awards. Let’s take a closer look at what makes GloRilla’s 2024 so special and why she’s dominating the awards scene.

GloRilla’s Six NAACP Image Award Nominations

GloRilla has been nominated in some of the most competitive categories at the NAACP Image Awards. Among the six nominations she’s up for:

1. Outstanding Female Artist
2. Outstanding Hip-Hop/Rap Song
3. Outstanding Album

These nominations reflect not just her musical talent but also her cultural influence. As an artist who blends elements of Southern rap with modern trap, GloRilla has emerged as one of the defining voices in hip-hop. Her songs speak to a generation, and her nominations at the NAACP Image Awards acknowledge her contribution to music and culture.

Ehhthang Ehhthang: GloRilla’s Mixtape Success

GloRilla’s Ehhthang Ehhthang mixtape, released in early 2024, was a bold statement of intent. Featuring standout tracks like “Wanna Be” with Megan Thee Stallion, the mixtape became an instant hit. “Wanna Be” received critical acclaim for its catchy hook, fierce lyrics, and the powerful collaboration between GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion, two of the biggest names in hip-hop at the time.

The mixtape also featured “Yeah Glo,” which would go on to receive Grammy nominations, further elevating GloRilla’s status in the music industry. The project debuted at number 18 on the Billboard 200 chart, a remarkable feat for an artist so early in their career. Ehhthang Ehhthang showed GloRilla’s raw energy, lyrical prowess, and a knack for creating songs that resonate with her audience.

Not only was the mixtape a commercial success, but it also set the stage for GloRilla’s debut album later in the year. It’s no surprise that she’s being recognized with multiple nominations at the NAACP Image Awards—Ehhthang Ehhthang played a pivotal role in building her fanbase and establishing her as one of the hottest new artists in hip-hop.

Glorious: GloRilla’s Debut Album Shines

Moreover, in October 2024, GloRilla released her debut album Glorious, which proved to be a game-changer in her career. The album debuted at number five on the Billboard 200, solidifying GloRilla’s place as one of hip-hop’s most promising stars. The album features 15 tracks, including collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, including Kirk Franklin, Muni Long, Megan Thee Stallion, Sexyy Red, Latto, and BossMan Dlow.

Glorious was not just a commercial success; it was also a critical one. Tracks like “Queen Of Memphis” and “Glo’s Prayer” displayed GloRilla’s evolution as an artist, showcasing her ability to blend rap, trap, and gospel influences. The album’s diversity in features—from gospel to rap to R&B—demonstrates GloRilla’s ability to cross genres and appeal to a wide audience. The album’s themes of empowerment, resilience, and success also contributed to its massive appeal.

A Year of Growth and Influence

GloRilla’s rise in 2024 is a story of rapid growth. From the early days of her career to becoming one of the most prominent voices in hip-hop, her journey is a testament to hard work, talent, and staying true to herself. With her powerful lyrics, distinctive voice, and relentless drive, GloRilla has managed to carve out her own lane in a competitive industry.

Her influence extends beyond her music. As a female rapper, GloRilla represents the strength, resilience, and determination of women in hip-hop. Her music often tackles themes of self-confidence, empowerment, and survival, resonating with listeners, especially women, who find her authenticity and relatability empowering. Her success has inspired a new wave of female rappers and continues to pave the way for other women in the industry.

The NAACP Image Awards: Celebrating Black Excellence

The NAACP Image Awards have long been a highlight for recognizing African American talent across various industries, including music, television, film, and literature. This year’s ceremony promises to be an unforgettable evening, honoring the achievements of Black artists, entertainers, and creators.

The 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards will be broadcast live on BET and simulcast on CBS on February 22, 2025. The ceremony is set to feature performances from top artists, celebrity appearances, and tributes to the cultural impact of Black entertainers. Fans will be able to watch the ceremony from home, while those interested in the non-televised categories can catch the livestream on the NAACP Image Awards website on February 21, 2025.

What to Expect at the 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards

The NAACP Image Awards celebrate a wide range of achievements across various fields of entertainment, and this year’s show is shaping up to be a landmark event. Along with GloRilla’s dominant presence in the music categories, expect performances from some of today’s biggest artists, including many of the nominees themselves. The evening will also recognize exceptional achievements in film, television, and social justice, ensuring a comprehensive celebration of Black excellence.

For music lovers, the NAACP Image Awards represent a chance to honor not just the best songs, but also the artists who are pushing the boundaries of their craft and making a lasting cultural impact. Whether GloRilla walks away with an award or not, her six nominations are a clear sign of her growing influence in the entertainment world.

Why GloRilla’s Nominations Matter

GloRilla’s six NAACP Image Award nominations are significant for several reasons. For one, it highlights the rise of female artists in hip-hop, an industry traditionally dominated by men. It also signals the continuing evolution of the genre, with GloRilla’s distinctive sound—mixing Southern rap, trap, and mainstream appeal—capturing the attention of both fans and critics alike.

These nominations also represent the broader recognition of Memphis as a hub for innovative hip-hop talent. GloRilla’s success follows in the footsteps of other Memphis artists who have made a mark on the global music scene, and she continues to carry the torch for the city’s rich musical heritage.

GloRilla’s Bright Future

The 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards are shaping up to be an exciting night, with GloRilla leading the way with six nominations. From her breakout mixtape Ehhthang Ehhthang to her genre-blending debut album Glorious, GloRilla has proven she’s more than just a rising star—she’s a force in the music industry.

With her nominations recognizing both her artistic achievements and her cultural impact, GloRilla is poised to make even more waves in 2025. As she continues to inspire fans and fellow artists alike, the future is undoubtedly bright for the Memphis rapper. Whether she takes home an award or not, GloRilla’s place in the annals of hip-hop history is already secured.

The 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards will be a night to remember, and GloRilla is sure to be one of its most talked-about stars.