The South African Music Awards (SAMAs) have released nominees for their 30th annual event.
This year’s award categories include the Motsepe Foundation Record of the Year and RiSA Audio Visual (RAV) Music Video of the Year.
Despite setbacks last year, including the resignation of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs as host, the SAMAs return to commemorate South Africa’s robust music scene.
The candidates for the Motsepe Foundation Record of the Year category are dominated by amapiano, a genre that has swept South Africa and the world.
Tyler ICU and Tumelo.za’s “Mnike” is at the top of the list, featuring DJ Maphorisa, Nandipha808, Ceeka RSA, and Tyrone Dee. This track’s dancing challenge has been well received, making it a strong contender.
“IPlan” by Dlala Thukzin, Zaba, and Sykes is also making waves, as is “Imithandazo” by Kabza De Small and Mthunzi, which features Young Stunna, DJ Maphorisa, Sizwe Alakine, and Umthakathi Kush.
“Sgudi Snyc” by De Mthuda, Da Muziqal Chef, Eemoh, and Sipho Magudulela reinforces Amapiano domination by showing the genre’s complexity and innovation.
Tyla’s international smash “Water” is also on the list, bringing a global flavor to the nominations.
This song has attracted an international audience, promoting South African music and positioning Tyla as one of the country’s rising talents.
In the RiSA Audio Visual Music Video of the Year category, the competition is stiff. Tyla’s “Water” shines out once more, alongside “Mnike” by Tyler ICU and Tumelo.za.
Other significant competitors are “Awukhuzeki” by DJ Stokie, “Hamba Juba” by Lady Amar, JL SA, Cici, and Murumba Pitch, and “Kulula” by MaWhoo, DJ Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small.
Lowsheen’s visual storytelling is also highlighted in the nominees for “Thula” with Master KG and Nkosazana Daughter, as well as “Uthando Lwakho” with Master KG and Basetsana.
“Sgudi Snyc” has been recognized for its unique video production, alongside “Lemons (Lemonade)” by AKA and Nasty C, “Mohigan Sun” by Mörda and Oscar Mbo featuring Murumba Pitch, and “Ronda” by Blxckie.
The Motsepe Foundation, CAPASSO, SAMPRA, and SAMRO are among the primary sponsors for this year’s SAMAs, which will be broadcast on SABC 1.
Public voting is now open, and fans can vote by texting the artist code to 33485.
Organisers are keeping details of this year’s awards under wraps, with the venue and date still to be confirmed.
Lesley Mofokeng, RiSA’s communications manager, expressed enthusiasm over the milestone event.
“The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) is pleased to announce the nominations for the Motsepe Foundation Record of the Year and RiSA Audio Visual Music Video of the Year awards.
This is the first step towards achieving the #SAMA30 milestone. More information about the event will be shared later. We appreciate the media and the public’s continuous attention and support for the SAMA,” he stated.
