WeeklySA_AdminCREATIVITY: New categories, rising stars and multiple nominees highlight a vibrant year for South African music as the Metro FM Music Awards head to Durban…
By Priscilla Malinga
The nominees for the 2026 Metro FM Music Awards were unveiled at a lively launch event at The Forum in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, setting the stage for one of South Africa’s biggest music celebrations.
The awards will take place at the Durban International Convention Centre on April 25, with the City of eThekwini hosting the event.
SABC Radio Group Executive Nanda Wotshela described the awards as a celebration of creativity and expressed excitement about taking the ceremony to Durban, calling it one of the biggest events in the country’s entertainment industry.
This year’s awards introduce new categories for Maskandi and Lekompo, reflecting the growing diversity of South Africa’s music scene. Maskandi artist Mzukulu (Sfanele Zulu), nominated in the Best Maskandi category, told Weekly SA Mirror that the nomination had given him confidence and encouragement. “I am honoured because nominations do not happen to just anyone. The people who enjoy my music inspire me to keep going,” he said.
Motsepe Foundation representative Stan Mabulu said the partnership with Metro FM aims to support emerging artists and unlock opportunities for young people in the creative sector.
More than 100 artists across 21 categories have been nominated, highlighting the breadth of talent in the local industry.
Jazzwrld and Thukuthela lead the field with seven nominations each, while Mawhoo, Sam Deep and Kabza De Small also received multiple nominations. First-time nominees include Karishma, Goon Flavour and Nkesh. Metro FM Business Manager Kina Nhlengethwa said the nominations reflect the vibrant diversity of South African music and celebrate the creativity of local artists.
New sponsors this year include Lottostar, Icebolethu and SAMRO, joining long-standing partners the Motsepe Foundation, Africa Fashion International and Santam. Fans can vote for their favourite artists on the Metro FM website ahead of the awards ceremony in
