#SAMA30 Highlights: Tyla and Amapiano Kings Dominate at South African Music Awards 2024
The 30th annual South African Music Awards (#SAMA30), held at Gallagher Convention Centre, delivered a night of showstopping performances and big wins. This year, Water hitmaker Tyla stole the spotlight, scooping four awards, while Amapiano heavyweights Kabza De Small and Mthunzi celebrated double victories. The event marked a pivotal moment in South Africa’s music scene, highlighting the dynamic talent shaping local and global sounds.
#SAMA30 Highlights
Tyla’s Phenomenal Year Continues
Tyla, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in 2024, added four prestigious SAMA awards to her growing list of accolades. Known internationally for her single Truth or Dare and recognized by the Grammys and MTV Music Awards, Tyla won:
- Ukhozi FM Female Artist of the Year
- SANTAM Newcomer of the Year
- Best Pop Album for her debut, Tyla
- International Achievement Award
These wins further cement Tyla’s reputation as a global star, closing out what many have dubbed “Tyla’s year.”
Kabza De Small and Mthunzi: Amapiano Titans Shine
Amapiano, one of South Africa’s most beloved genres, took centre stage as Kabza De Small and Mthunzi claimed major awards for their collaboration on Isimo. Their accolades included:
- SAMPRA Album of the Year
- Radio 2000 Duo/Group of the Year
- Motsweding FM Best Amapiano Album
Following Kabza De Small’s sweep in 2023, his 2024 wins reflect his consistency and popularity within the genre.
Celebrating Excellence Across Diverse Genres
The SAMA30 celebrated talent across various genres, awarding artists from Maskandi to jazz. Other notable winners included:
- Best Adult Contemporary Album: Drakensberg Boys Choir – Stimela
- Best Afro-pop Album: Lwah Ndlunkulu – Imizwa
- Best Jazz Album: Steve Dyer – Enhlizweni: Song From My Heartland
- Best Hip Hop Album: Priddy Ugly – Dust
- Best Gqom Album: QueDj – We Don’t Play the Same Gqom
The evening was a testament to South Africa’s diverse musical landscape, which continues to captivate fans domestically and abroad.
Full List of #SAMA30 Winners
The SAMAs awarded top talents in over 30 categories. Notable winners included:
- Best Maskandi Album: uGatsheni – Uyihlo noNyoko
- Best Dance Album: Dlala Thukzin – Permanent Music 3
- Rest of Africa: Edgar Muzah (Zimbabwe) – Son of a Tribe (Royalty Edition)
These artists, among others, reflect the vibrant tapestry of South African music, celebrating both emerging and established talents.
Also read: Weekly Gig Guide for Upcoming Events in Gauteng: 4 – 10 November 2024
