AkayCentric “Running” Ft Ryan Carnes
Nigerian-American singer AkayCentric is now in the race for the next GRAMMY Awards. His latest single, “Running,” which features American actor and musician Ryan Carnes, has been officially submitted for consideration in the Best Dance Pop Recording category.
It is a big moment for the independent artist, who has spent the last few years building his name in the United States while staying connected to his Nigerian roots.
Watch the Official Video for “Running”
Before we get into the details, you can watch the official music video for “Running” featuring Ryan Carnes below:
Can’t see the video? Watch “Running” on YouTube here.
All About “Running”
“Running” was released in June 2026. It is another international collaboration for AkayCentric, and it mixes his African musical roots with pop sounds and an energetic, dance-ready beat.
The song is a meeting point of music and screen talent. It shows how artists from different countries and industries can come together on one record.
Ryan Carnes Joins the Song
The featured artist on the track, Ryan Carnes, is best known for his acting career. Many people will remember him from his role on the hit TV series Desperate Housewives. He has also appeared in many other films and TV shows. On “Running,” he shows off his music side as an artist and drummer.
The Team Behind the Track
A strong team worked on the song:
- Mixing and mastering: Luca Pretolesi, a well-known engineer in the international electronic and dance music scene, with credits linked to some of the genre’s biggest artists and releases
- Producer: TwinBeatz Peter
- Additional production: Taye Olusola
- Songwriters: Promise Chigbu, AkayCentric and Ryan Carnes
- Recording engineer: Stef Moro
Having Luca Pretolesi handle the final mix and master gives the record extra weight, especially in the dance pop space where it is being considered.
Who Is AkayCentric?
AkayCentric is originally from Nigeria. He moved to the United States in 2020, and since then he has kept growing his career as an independent artist while holding on to strong ties with African music and culture.
His music often crosses different styles, including Afrobeats, pop, R&B and electronic music. That mix is clear on “Running.”
From “Recess” to the World Stage
His earlier single, “Recess,” got TV exposure on platforms such as MTV Base and BET International. His work has also caught the attention of media outside Nigeria.
In 2026, “Recess” earned him two nominations at the Josie Music Awards in Nashville:
- Song of the Year – Multi-Genre
- Music Video of the Year – Male
He is also a World Entertainment Awards winner, and he has been featured on the Recording Academy’s platforms.
Music With a Purpose
Beyond making hit songs, AkayCentric has also used his music for social-impact projects. His work has previously been connected to a United Nations-supported climate initiative. This shows a career that moves between music, entertainment and advocacy.
He has also worked with artists from different parts of the world and performed alongside internationally recognised acts.
A Voting Member of the Recording Academy
AkayCentric is now a Voting Member of the Recording Academy, the body behind the GRAMMY Awards. He is part of a growing number of African artists taking up membership in the Academy. Recently, Ghanaian musician Kwame Yeboah also joined the Grammy Recording Academy.
For AkayCentric, the GRAMMY consideration for “Running” is another milestone in his journey so far.
What Happens Next?
Being submitted for consideration is the first step on the road to the GRAMMYs. Submitted songs then go through the Recording Academy’s voting process, and only a few recordings in each category make it to the final list of nominees.
So while “Running” is not yet a nominee, the submission puts AkayCentric’s name and music in front of the people who decide. Fans will now be watching closely when the official nominations are announced.
Why This Matters for African Music
“Running” is not built around one country or one market. It brings together a Nigerian-American artist, an American actor and musician, and a world-famous dance-music engineer, all on one song. That reflects how global pop music has become today.
African artists are paying closer attention to how the GRAMMYs handle their music. The debate around Moliy’s global hit being ruled ineligible shows how much these decisions matter to fans and artists across the continent.
With “Running” now submitted for Best Dance Pop Recording, AkayCentric continues his push to take his independent catalogue, and his Nigerian roots, to a bigger audience around the world.
Where to Listen
“Running” by AkayCentric featuring Ryan Carnes is available on all major streaming platforms. You can also watch the official video on YouTube.
Do you think “Running” has what it takes to earn a GRAMMY nomination? Tell us what you think in the comments.
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