For Moliy, the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards were more than just a red carpet appearance, but a reflection in her musical journey. Stepping into the Dolby Theatre as the most-nominated African artist of the year, the Ghanaian superstar brought the infectious energy of her chart-topping hits to life through a meticulously crafted visual identity. From the nostalgic Y2K accents of her hair tinsel to the custom “Baddie” jewelry that teased her upcoming era, every element of her look felt like a celebration of her journey from viral TikTok moments in Accra to the pinnacle of the international stage.
This transition from breakout sensation to “World Artist of the Year” winner marks a historic milestone for Ghanaian music, proving that authenticity is the ultimate universal language. Reflecting on the significance of her recognition, Moliy notes that this award is a representation of how far intention, consistency, and self-belief can take you, especially as she becomes the first artist from her home country to receive this honor. As she prepares for a new season of “feel-good party music” and high-profile collaborations, GU caught up with the singer to chat about her confidence and the creative spirit of an artist who is no longer just following the trend, but setting the pace.
GU: What was the inspiration behind your look for the iHeart Awards as the most-nominated African artist?
Moliy: I love weaving pastels and bright colors into my red carpet looks, from my makeup to my dress to my accessories. I like to lean into my feminine energy and draw inspiration from the early 2000s, working with my stylist Naya and adding playful touches like rhinestones and hair tinsel to make everything fun and eye-catching. The most important part of the look, though, is confidence. This dress made me feel like a total baddie, and the feathers on my heels brought it to life with every step, adding movement and dimension. We finished it off with a nod to my upcoming project with personalized necklaces that read “Baddie” and “MOLIY,” tying the whole look together in a way that felt unique to me.
GU: After the breakout success of Shake It To The Max in 2025, what is currently on your mood board for the 2026 era?
Moliy: I’m keeping the energy going and releasing more party feel-good music this year that’ll have everyone feeling confident and ready to dance; I already got to kick off 2026 with “PARTYGYAL,” an Afro-House Pop collaboration with bees & honey. I also want to keep playing with my style and makeup, expressing myself through many different surprises I have planned this year.
GU: What are the three skincare secrets behind your signature glow?
Moliy: My baddie skincare secrets are lots of water, sleep, shea butter, and always having a positive focus on the good vibes, plus a little help from Patrick Ta.
GU: How does it feel to receive such massive global recognition as World Artist of the Year?
Moliy: This award is so special to me. It feels like a representation of how far intention, consistency, and self-belief can take you. To see my music recognized on a global stage is so motivating. This honor holds deep significance as I am the first Ghanaian artist to receive this award, a milestone that allows me to proudly represent the creativity and boundless talent that Ghana has to offer.
GU: What surprises can we expect from the upcoming EP, and is there a new dance to go with it?
Moliy: Surprises are still to come, but I’m excited to keep giving my fans new baddie dancefloor anthems. I’m gearing up for exciting collaborations that show my range and bring sounds from around the world together.
GU: What is the biggest lesson you have learned about yourself while navigating the mainstream market?
Moliy: I’ve learned that staying true to yourself really does take you far. It’s easy to feel like you have to fit into whatever’s popular in the mainstream, but I’ve found that people enjoy discovering something new or less familiar to them. My music pulls from Afropop, Dancehall, and Afro-house, genres some audiences may be less familiar with, but people all over the world are streaming the songs, connecting with them, and even creating dances to them.