WeeklySA_AdminSOUNDSCAPE: The countdown to South Africa’s biggest music celebration officially underway following the unveiling of the 32nd South African Music Awards nominations, with Sun City set to host the prestigious event in August…
By Priscilla Malinga
The race for South Africa’s most coveted music honours is officially on after the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) unveiled the nominees for the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) during a glamorous ceremony at Rockets Venue in Bryanston on Thursday.
The awards ceremony, scheduled for August 15 at the Sun City Superbowl in North West, will celebrate excellence across 25 fiercely contested categories. This year’s nominees reflect the diversity, creativity and cultural richness of South African music, showcasing artists whose work continues to shape the country’s evolving soundscape.
The winners in the prestigious Top Five categories remain under wraps, with RiSA confirming that the finalists will be announced in the coming weeks. “This year’s announcement signals more than just the beginning of awards season. It heralds a triumphant homecoming,” said RiSA chief executive officer Nhlanhla Sibisi.
Dubbed the SAMA32 Homecoming Edition, the return to the iconic Sun City Superbowl marks a symbolic reunion between South Africa’s premier music awards and one of the country’s most celebrated entertainment venues.
“The return to North West Province is both symbolic and celebratory,” Sibisi said. “It marks a reunion between the SAMAs and one of South Africa’s most beloved entertainment destinations, where countless musical milestones have been created and some of the country’s most memorable performances have unfolded.”
He added that this year’s nominees represent more than outstanding recordings.
“They embody dreams realised, barriers broken and creative journeys that continue to inspire.”
Among the closely watched categories, Best Adult Contemporary Album features Four Spirits (Live) by Abel Selaocoe, Aurora Orchestra, Nicholas Collon and Bernhard Schimpelsberger; Buzzhead by Kahn Morbee; Malachi’s Dream by Tim Parr; Wrapped in Rhythm Vol. 2 by Tutu Puoane, Metropole Orkest and Jacome Bairos; and You Love Who You Love by Wandile Mbambeni.
The Best Afropop Album category pits Lwah Ndlunkulu’s Amaciko against Busisiwe 2.0 by CiCi, Inkanyezi 2.0 (Live) by Sjava, Out The Box by Nomfundo Moh and Touch Is a Move (Good Morning) by Sun-El Musician featuring Simmy.
The fiercely competitive Best Amapiano Album category includes Acquiesce by Babalwa M, Bab’Motha by Kabza De Small, Mthuthuzeli by De Mthuda and two albums by Kelvin Momo — N’wana Wa Mutsonga and Thato Ya Modimo.
RiSA says this year’s awards will once again showcase the best of South African musical talent while embracing innovation and technology to reach audiences around the world.
In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, discussions are expected to dominate social media, radio stations, streaming platforms and entertainment news as fans rally behind their favourite artists.
SAMA32 is supported by the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), South African Tourism, RiSA Audio Visual (RAV), the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA), the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO), while the SABC returns as the official broadcast partner.
Sibisi also paid tribute to the judging panel for ensuring the credibility of the awards process.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed judging panel whose expertise, integrity and dedication made this year’s nomination process possible. Their commitment to recognising excellence and nurturing South Africa’s musical heritage is deeply valued.
“Congratulations to all the nominees. Your music has moved the nation, and your moment has arrived.”
