Tyla Dominates SAMA30 Nominations with Five Nods Ahead of November Ceremony

The anticipation for the South African Music Awards (SAMA) is palpable, as this year’s ceremony is set for November 2. The official announcement event took place at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, where the music industry’s finest gathered to celebrate the nominees.

Hosted by popular radio and TV personality Lootlove, the launch featured electrifying performances from artists including Zola, Khuli Chana, Lamiez Holworthy, and others, showcasing the vibrant talent within South Africa’s music scene.

Leading the nominations is Grammy-winning artist Tyla, who secured an impressive five nods. Her nominations include SAMPRA Album of the Year, Ukhozi FM Female Artist of the Year, SANTAM Newcomer of the Year, Best Pop Album, and Best Collaboration for her hit “Water” featuring Travis Scott. Following her are Kabza De Small and Mbuso Khoza, each with three nominations.

The SANTAM Newcomer of the Year category is particularly competitive, featuring notable talents like Tyla, Lwah Ndlunkulu for “Imizwa,” and Sykes for “Most Wanted,” along with Johan Balt and Joliza, who also have their own strong contenders.

Nhlanhla Sibisi, CEO of the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA), expressed his excitement over the nominations, stating, “I am truly humbled by the exceptional talent and dedication behind the music that has earned nominations this year. Congratulations to all the nominees. Your music has touched lives, sparked movements, and brought joy to millions.” Sibisi emphasized the importance of recognizing not just the artistry, but also the passion and perseverance that drive these musicians to excel.

Here’s a closer look at some key nominations across various categories:

Best Adult Contemporary Album

• The Misty Cliffs – The Misty Cliffs
• Drakensberg Boys Choir – Stimela
• The Drive – Dr Duda
• Shipwrecked – Jack Atlantic
• Isipho – Smama

Ikwekwezi FM Best African Adult Contemporary Album

• Isicathamiya For A New Millennium – Thee Legacy
• Amaxesha – Bongeziwe Mabandla
• Reimagined – The Soil
• Sane – Brenda Mtambo
• Umoya – Embracing the Human Spirit – Vusi Mahlasela

Best Afro Pop Album

• Umkhonto – Zuko SA
• Imizwa – Lwah Ndlunkulu
• Ukhamba – Inkabi Zezwe
• Zulu Romance – Blaq Diamond
• Ugcobo – Nomfundo Moh

Best Collaboration

• Burning Bush – Mo¨rda and Thakzin
• iPlan – Dlala Thukzin, Sykes, and Zaba
• Sgudi Sync – De Mthuda and others featuring Sipho Magudulela
• Water – Tyla and Travis Scott
• Imithandazo – Kabza De Small and Mthunzi featuring Young Stunna and others

Best Dance Album

• Asante II – Mo¨rda and Thakzin
• Permanent Music 3 – Dlala Thukzin
• The Star Is Reborn – Zakes Bantwini
• Clickbait – DBN Gogo
• Reputation – Sculptured Music

Best Hip Hop Album

• Note To Self – FLVME
• I Love It Here – Nasty C
• People Forget To Be People – Wordz
• Heartbreak Hotel – The Big Hash
• Dust – Priddy Ugly

Best Traditional Music Album

• Bhacasoul Experience EP – Joliza
• Mbofholowo – Makhadzi
• I’m Happy – Shabalala Rhythm
• Shaka iLembe Soundtrack Album Volume 2 – Shaka ILembe
• Hamba Naye – Soul Brothers

With a diverse array of genres represented, the SAMA30 promises to highlight the rich musical talent emerging from South Africa. As the industry gears up for this prestigious event, the excitement surrounding the nominees and performances continues to build, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.