Tyla reigns supreme as the race to SAMA30 heats up
Tyla, the international South African singing sensation, leads the pack with five nominations after the South African Music Awards unveiled the list of SAMA30 nominees, this morning at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
For Tyla, her self-titled album, she was nodded in SAMPRA Album of the Year, Ukhozi FM Female Artist of the Year, SANTAM Newcomer of the Year and Best Pop Album categories as well as Best Collaboration for Water with Travis Scott.
The nominees event set the tone towards the milestone 30 years celebration of the most prestigious and coveted music award ceremony in South Africa, scheduled to take place on 2 November 2024 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. With the theme Less Noise More Music, SAMA30 emphasises a renewed focus on artistry and creativity. The nominations berths are testament to the competitiveness and outstanding craftsmanship of the industry.
Hot on the heels of Tyla’s five nominations are Kabza De Small and Mthunzi, and Mbuso Khoza with three nods respectively. Kabza, the diminutive Amapiano maestro is in the running for Album of the Year and Motsweding FM Best Amapiano Album for Isimo and Radio 2000 Duo/Group of the Year with Mthunzi for Isimo. Khoza walked away with Best Produced Album, Best Traditional Music Album and Best Engineered Album for Shaka iLembe Soundtrack Album Volume 2 (Original Music from the Shaka iLembe TV Series).
It’s a clash of the titans in the Lesedi FM Male Artist of the Year category, Amapiano headliners Kelvin Momo for Kurhula, Daliwonga for Dali Dali and De Mthuda for Baba Yaga; go up against rapper Priddy Ugly for Dust and new-age Maskandi artist Ugatsheni for Uyihlo noNyoko.
In the Ukhozi FM Female Artist of the Year category, Tyla for Tyla faces stiff competition from Brenda Mtambo for Sane, Lwah Ndlunkulu for Imizwa, Lordkez for Testament and Xolly Mncwango for Unusual.
The SANTAM Newcomer of the Year category attracted a substantial number of women as Tyla for Tyla, Lwah Ndlunkulu for Imizwa and Sykes for Most Wanted; take the battle to Die Piesangskille and Johan Balt for Almal Gly and Joliza for Bhacasoul Experience EP.
The SAMPRA Album of the Year category represents various genres with Amapiano stars Kabza De Small and Mthunzi for Isimo and Daliwonga for Dali Dali up against, pop princess Tyla for Tyla, faith music powerhouse Xolly Mncwango for Unusual and iconic isicathamiya group Ladysmith Black Mambazo for Soothe My Soul: Songs from our South African Church.
Other notable nods are Matthew Mole who earned two nominations in Best Pop Album and Best Engineered Album for Wake Up, It’s Morning; and Mörda and Thakzin in Best Collaboration and Best Dance Album for Asante II.
The nominations event hosted by the radio and television personality Luthando ‘Lootlove’ Shosha was a lavish occasion attended by top musicians, celebrities, music industry heavyweights and dignitaries who gathered to honour the incredible talent shaping South Africa’s vibrant music scene.
The morning began with yellow-carpet arrivals and fashion moments. Guests nibbled on a select gourmet brunch and performers included Zola, Khuli Chana, Bassie, Easy Freak, Abafana Baka Mnqumeni, DJ Thabi Thabs and Kryptonite dance group who set the stage alight with nostalgic tunes from the past 30 years of the SAMA and democracy in South Africa. Social media busker Kutlwano Yika warmed hearts with his renditions of local tunes.
Nhlanhla Sibisi, CEO of the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA), expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s shortlist: “We are thrilled to congratulate the nominees for SAMA30. This year’s selection showcases the incredible diversity, talent, and creativity in South African music, which is aligned to the ethos of the SAMAs. We are excited to celebrate these outstanding achievements at the upcoming awards ceremony.
“I am truly humbled by the exceptional talent and dedication behind the music that has earned nominations this year. To each nominee, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations. Your music has touched lives, sparked movements, and brought joy to millions. We honour not only your artistry but the passion and perseverance that drive you to push the boundaries of South African music.”
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