The South African Music Awards (SAMAs) have always been more than a night of trophies, they are a snapshot of where the country’s sound is headed. This year’s nominees, announced by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) in Gauteng, confirm what many fans already know: South African music is living through a golden era.
Black Motion and Thandiswa Take Centre Stage
Afro-house duo Black Motion emerged as the frontrunners with four nominations, including nods for Best Dance Album and Best Produced Album for The Cradle of Art. Hot on their heels is Thandiswa Mazwai, who earned three nominations, a reminder of her staying power as one of Mzansi’s most respected voices.
Thandiswa’s latest project, Sankofa, bridges tradition and contemporary artistry, a fitting reflection of this year’s SAMA theme: “Less Noise. More Music.”
A Battle of Genres: Amapiano, Afro Pop, and Beyond
The nominations also spotlight the continued dominance of amapiano. Producer Kelvin Momo scored three nods, with two of his albums—Sewe and Ntsako, competing against each other in the Best Amapiano Album category. Similarly, Sjava finds himself in a rare position, with Isibuko (Deluxe) and Inkanyezi (Live) both up for Best Afro Pop Album.
It’s a moment that shows the depth of the country’s output, artists aren’t just experimenting, they’re flourishing across multiple releases in a single year.
“A Symphony of Sound”
Unati Gwija, spokesperson for RiSA, described the nominations as “a symphony of South African sound,” adding:
“It is the wisdom of age meeting the exuberance of youth, as emerging voices and established icons go head-to-head across categories.”
Indeed, the shortlist balances the legends, like Khuzani in Maskandi and Prime Circle in Rock—with the rising stars, from TikTok-driven amapiano acts to fresh jazz voices like Nduduzo Makhathini.
The Bigger Picture: More Than Awards
Social media has already erupted with predictions. Fans of amapiano are rallying behind Kelvin Momo, while Afro-pop lovers are calling for Sjava to finally get his flowers. Black Motion’s supporters, on the other hand, are framing their nominations as a triumphant comeback for a group that has weathered internal changes but still dominates dance floors.
Thandiswa’s nods have sparked another kind of conversation about how female artists in South Africa often carry not just the music but also the political and cultural narratives of their time. Her recognition feels like more than an award; it’s an acknowledgment of her role in shaping the country’s sonic identity.
What to Expect in November
The 31st annual SAMAs, set for November, promise a night where amapiano will test its longevity, Afro-house will remind us of its global influence, and icons like Mazwai will show why their music still matters.
With 25 categories already revealed and five more to be announced in September, the anticipation is building. As Gwija put it, the awards are less about noise and more about celebrating the craft, the culture, and the journeys behind every song.
And for the fans? It’s another reason to turn up the volume, because once again, Mzansi’s music is centre stage.
{Source: The Citizen}
Featured Image: X {@sahiphop247}
