WeeklySA_AdminSPOTLIGHT: A star-studded night at the Durban ICC celebrates two decades of musical excellence, with standout wins, rising stars and a city-wide festive atmosphere…
By Given Mashiloane and Priscilla Malinga
The 20th edition of the Metro FM Music Awards delivered a dazzling celebration of South African music, drawing crowds of stylish revellers to Durban for one of the country’s biggest entertainment nights.
The glamorous black carpet set the tone, as leading figures in music and entertainment showcased their finest fashion, pausing for photos and soaking in the spotlight. More than just an awards ceremony, the event offered artists a chance to reconnect, celebrate and enjoy the industry’s collective achievements.
Hosts Lerato Kganyago and Lawrence Maleka brought charisma and chemistry to the stage, seamlessly steering the show while impressing with multiple wardrobe changes.
On the awards front, Thukuthela and Jazzworx emerged as big winners, taking home three awards, including Best Produced Album, Best Dance Album and Best Duo/Group. Ciza also had a standout night, scooping both Artist of the Year and Best Male Artist.
The ceremony also spotlighted emerging talent, with Lekompo artists making a strong impression. Shandesh won Best Female Artist, while Kharishma secured Best Newcomer, reflecting the growing influence of the Limpopo-born genre.
Beyond the awards, Durban came alive with a series of activities aimed at promoting the city’s tourism appeal. The weekend saw celebrities and visitors alike enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, with organisers ensuring a smooth and festive experience across events.
A fashion showcase, hosted by the Motsepe Foundation at Oceans Mall, added another layer to the celebrations, giving young designers a platform to present their latest collections.
Entertainment remained a key highlight of the evening, with high-energy performances reinforcing South Africa’s reputation for producing world-class events. While some viewers raised concerns about sound quality on social media, the show continued to impress overall.
The night also paid tribute to industry legends. Veteran broadcaster Wilson B Nkosi received a standing ovation as he was honoured with the Long Service Award for his enduring contribution to Metro FM and the music industry. Maskandi icon Bheki “Ihashi Elimhlophe” Ngcobo was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating a career that began in childhood with a homemade guitar.
Held at the Durban ICC on April 25 and broadcast on SABC 1 and SABC+, the awards also recognised a range of other talents. Paras “Sibalukhulu” Dlamini won Best Jazz Album, Musa Yende took Best Gospel Album, while Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza won Best Collaboration for You Make Me Happy. The Best Viral Challenge award went to Goon Flavour, Master KG and EeMoh for Ngishutheni.
Two decades on, the Metro FM Music Awards continue to cement their place as a cornerstone of South Africa’s entertainment calendar — blending music, fashion and culture into a celebration that resonates far beyond the stage.
