Ladysmith Black Mambazo win three Metro FM Award

Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]

The legendary South African Imbube group Ladysmith Black Mambazo had a triumphant night at the 2026 Metro FM Music Awards 2026, taking home three major honours at a ceremony held on April 25 at the Durban International Convention Centre.

Their collaboration “You Make Me Happy,” featuring acclaimed composer Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza, won both Best African Pop and Best Collaboration.

The group also received the Global Icon Award, a special recognition of their enduring sound and global legacy in South African music and beyond.

They dedicated their wins to veteran member Albert Mdletshe Mazibuko, who passed away on April 5 at the age of 77. Mazibuko was described as a cornerstone of the group for more than five decades, contributing significantly to their signature isicathamiya sound and helping take African music to a global audience.

Other standout winners on the night included production duo Jazzworx and Thukuthela, who also claimed three awards – Best Produced Album for “Most Wanted,” Best Dance for “Uzizwa Kanjani,” and Best Duo/Group.

Maskandi musician UMafikizolo’s “Uyongcwengwa Ngunyoko” was crowned Song of the Year.

Metro FM Music Awards 2026 – Winners List

Best Jazz Album
Paras “Sibalukhulu” Dlamini – Ingoma Busuku

Best Gospel Album
Musa Yende – Sustained by Grace

Best Produced Album
Jazzworx & Thukuthela – Most Wanted

Best Collaboration
Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza – “You Make Me Happy”

Best Viral Challenge
Goon Flavour, Master KG & EeMoh – “Ngishutheni”

Best Female Artist
Shandesh

Best Styled Artist
Musa Keys

Best R&B Song
Una Rams – “Priceless Possession”

Best Maskandi
Khuzani – “Umanikinikana”

Best Male Artist
Ciza