In a dazzling celebration of South African musical talent, international pop sensation Tyla and Amapiano powerhouse Kabza De Small, alongside his collaborator Mthunzi, took home the top honors at the 2024 South African Music Awards (Samas) last night. Hosted at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, the ceremony attracted stars from music, television, film, and beyond, gathering to celebrate the country’s artistic achievements.
Television personality Minnie Dlamini commanded the stage as host, taking the audience on a journey through the past three decades of South African music while bringing the spotlight back to the present. It was a night filled with electrifying performances, vibrant visuals, and dynamic beats, setting the tone for a memorable event in the nation’s entertainment calendar.
Tyla, who continues to capture the global stage with her unique sound, was one of the night’s biggest winners. She took home three major awards, including Female Artist of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, and Best Pop Album for her self-titled debut, Tyla. Already a celebrated artist with awards from the Grammys, BET, Metro FM, and MTV Music Awards, this marked her first Sama win, solidifying her as a key figure in the South African music scene.
Kabza De Small, also known as Kabelo Motha, sustained his winning momentum from previous years. His collaboration album Isimo with Mthunzi earned them Album of the Year, Duo/Group of the Year, and Best Amapiano Album. The pair’s impact was felt throughout the event, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with Tyla’s single Water and their track Imithandazo in the fiercely contested Record of the Year category.
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Ahead of the awards, Mthunzi expressed his excitement and gratitude for the nominations, recognizing the intensity of the competition. “If I do win, I’ll be grateful to God. The pressure this year is immense, but this recognition by the Samas is something I’ve always dreamed of,” he shared. Despite not having formal training in music, Mthunzi has risen to prominence and was eager to be acknowledged alongside his accomplished peers.
The night also featured standout wins in other categories. iPlan, a viral international hit by Dlala Thukzin, Sykes, and Zaba, claimed Best Collaboration, while Dlala Thukzin took home Best Dance Album for Permanent Music 3. Rapper Priddy Ugly won the highly contested Best Hip-Hop Album for Dust, and Sykes and QueDj captured awards for Best Kwaito Album and Best Gqom Album, respectively.
The Samas also paid tribute to the enduring influence of South African legends, awarding Lifetime Achievement recognitions to Ringo Madlingozi and Sipho Makhabane, acknowledging their significant contributions to the country’s cultural and musical legacy.
As the curtains closed on a thrilling night, it was clear that South African music continues to thrive, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide while honoring the roots and innovations that make it so unique.
