Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu in Midrand, South Africa
DESPITE financial constraints, the 31st annual South African Music Awards (SAMA31) concluded at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Sunday, proving that prestige is not defined by budget alone.
Embracing a hybrid format to navigate a “challenging sponsorship climate and the realities of a constrained funding environment,” the ceremony — under the theme “Flowers for those who keep our nation singing” — successfully upheld its reputation for celebrating musical excellence.
Hosted with vibrant energy by Pamela Mtanga and Siyabonga “Scoop Makhathini” Ngwekazi, the night was a testament to the enduring spirit of the South African music industry. While the format blended live and digital elements, the core mission of honouring the nation’s sonic architects remained undimmed. Attendees understood the assignment, gracing the red carpet and auditorium in stunning, meticulously crafted ensembles. Fashion was undeniably on point, with guests “dressed to the nines” and “dressed to the cuff,” adding significant glamour to the occasion.
The musical segments were a highlight, featuring well-choreographed and tightly rehearsed sets. Standout performances came from Zee Nxumalo, Naledi Aphiwe, the dynamic Makhadzi Entertainment, the legendary Jabu Hlongwane, and newly crowned hip-hop winner 25K, showcasing the depth and diversity of South Africa’s talent pool.
Maintaining the signature Sama elegance, nominees and guests were chauffeured to the venue via dedicated shuttles — a touch widely praised as “the icing on the cake,” preserving the event’s sense of occasion and grandeur.
However, technical glitches marred parts of the broadcast and live experience, with vocal audibility proving a recurring challenge. Sound cuts during speeches and presentations caused frustration, leaving audiences missing key announcements. A notable moment saw host Scoop Makhathini handed a replacement microphone mid-presentation — a clear area for improvement flagged by viewers.
Long registration queues also caused significant delays, pushing the event’s start time back and negatively impacting the flow and quality of crucial red carpet interviews.
A memorable, slightly awkward moment unfolded when Makhadzi, after winning Best Traditional Music Album for Miracle Child (Deluxe), hurried off the podium. Her elaborate white outfit by Somizi Mhlongo required assistance, briefly leaving her helper stranded on stage as she rushed back to her seat to remove a layer.
The undisputed queen of Sama31 was the iconic Thandiswa Mazwai. Her critically acclaimed 2024 album Sankofa blossomed under the spotlight, securing four major awards — Best Female Artiste of the Year, Best Produced Album of the Year, Best African Adult Contemporary Album, and Best Engineered Album. This dominant performance reaffirmed Thandiswa’s status as one of Africa’s most influential and respected musical voices, celebrating her artistic bravery, cultural depth and constant sonic innovation.
Alongside established stars, fresh talent was also recognised. Rapper 25K clinched his first Sama for Best Hip Hop Album with Loyal To The Plug: The Life & Times of Don Kilogrammes, marking a significant milestone in his rising career.
The awards honoured excellence across South African music:
* Best Adult Contemporary Album: Melanie Scholtz — Seven
* Best Afro Pop Album: Sjava — Isibuko (Deluxe)
* Best Alternative Album: Francis Soul — Hindsight 2020
* Best Amapiano Album: Kelvin Momo — Ntsako
* Best Classical/Instrumental Album: Derek Gripper — Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper
* Best Collaboration: Black Motion — Takala
* Best Dance Album: Dlala Thukzin — Finally Famous Too
* Best Gqom Album: Goldmax — Play At Your Own Risk
* Best Jazz Album: Peter Auret — Hope Dies Last
* Best Maskandi Album: Khuzani — Angidlali Nezngane
* Best Produced Music Video: Shekhinah — Risk
* Best R&B/Soul Album: Elaine — Stone Cold Heart
* Best Reggae Album: Luwe Da Lion — After All
* Best Rock Album: MaxX & Love — These Blues Might Get You Too
* Best Traditional Faith Music Album: Ayanda Ntanzi — According to Grace, A One Man Show
* Best Contemporary Music Album: Spoegwolf — Eindbestemming
* Remix of the Year: Mpho.Wav — Hlala
* Rest of Africa Award (South Africans Excluded): Ayra Starr — The Year I Turned 21
* Best African Indigenous Faith Album: JTG Gospel Choir — Morena Re Ya Leboga
* Best Contemporary Faith Music Album: Takie Ndou — The Glory — @MbuleloMpofu
