The countdown to the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) has entered an exciting new phase as public voting for the coveted Record of the Year award officially opens.
Widely regarded as one of the ceremony’s most anticipated categories, the award places the power directly in the hands of music fans, allowing them to decide which song will walk away with one of the industry’s biggest honours.
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Unlike most SAMA categories, which are adjudicated by a panel of industry experts, the Record of the Year award is determined entirely through public votes.
This unique format celebrates the connection between artists and their audiences, recognising the songs that have made the biggest cultural impact and resonated with listeners across South Africa.
SAMA32 announces nominees
IOL reports that the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) unveiled the nominees for two of the ceremony’s public-facing categories.
The nominees for Music Video of the Year and Record of the Year were announced ahead of the SAMA32 Homecoming Edition, which will take place at the Sun City Superbowl in the Northwest on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The publication adds that this follows Tuesday’s announcement of the Top 5 nominees for 2026, with gospel stars Hle and Amadodana Ase Wesile leading the pack with three nominations each. Held under the theme “The Future Sounds Like Now”, this year’s awards aim to celebrate artists redefining South African music and taking local sounds to audiences around the world.
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Spanning multiple genres, the shortlisted tracks reflect the talent, innovation and storytelling that have dominated airwaves, streaming platforms and live performances over the past year.
Voting for your favourite artist
Voting for Record of the Year is now open, with fans able to support their favourite artists by SMSing the nominee code to 32253. SMSes are charged, and terms and conditions apply.
SAMA spokesperson Unati Gwija said, “The nominations mark the beginning of the road to the country’s biggest night in music.
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