31st South African Music Awards Celebrate Excellence as Warner Music Africa and Africori Lead the Night

A Night Rooted in Flowers, Legacy, and Cultural Impact

The 31st South African Music Awards unfolded under the theme “Flowers For Those Who Keep Our Nation Singing”, a powerful tribute to creativity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of South African music.

Both metaphor and message, the theme honoured artists while they are still here to receive their flowers. Against this emotionally resonant backdrop, Warner Music Africa, in partnership with Africori, delivered a defining night as a collective of boundary-pushing artists claimed top honours, reaffirming their cultural relevance and sonic excellence.

Sjava Wins Best Afro Pop Album for Isibuko (Deluxe)

Best Afro Pop Album

Leading the night’s accolades was Sjava, whose deeply introspective project Isibuko (Deluxe) secured the award for Best Afro Pop Album.

Rooted in reflection and emotional honesty, Isibuko continues Sjava’s tradition of storytelling that speaks directly to lived experience. The win further positions him as one of the most important and enduring voices of his generation.

Kelvin Momo Claims Best Amapiano Album With Ntsako

Best Amapiano Album

In the Best Amapiano Album category, Kelvin Momo emerged victorious with Ntsako, a lush and soul-stirring body of work.

Known for emotive compositions and immersive soundscapes, Kelvin Momo’s win reflects both his refined musicality and Amapiano’s continued evolution as a globally resonant genre.

Makhadzi Entertainment Honoured for Best Traditional Music Album

Best Traditional Music Album

Celebrating heritage, spirituality, and cultural pride, Makhadzi Entertainment took home Best Traditional Music Album for Miracle Child (Deluxe).

The project stands as a powerful celebration of tradition and triumph, carried by Makhadzi’s unmistakable voice and her unwavering commitment to honouring her roots while commanding mainstream acclaim.

Takie Ndou Wins Best Contemporary Faith Music Album

Best Contemporary Faith Music Album

In the Best Contemporary Faith Music Album category, Takie Ndou was awarded for The Glory.

The project blends worship, contemporary production, and personal testimony into a spiritually rich and emotionally resonant offering that uplifts and inspires.

“Kwelanga 2.0” Takes Most Streamed Song of the Year

Most Streamed Song of the Year

Crowning an exceptional night, Warner Music Africa secured Most Streamed Song of the Year with Kwelanga 2.0 by Bassie x M-Touch x Ranger x Amaza, featuring Tman Xpress and LeeMcKrazy.

A true cultural moment, the song’s digital dominance speaks to the power of collaboration and the undeniable impact of Amapiano on South Africa’s streaming landscape.

Shaping the Sound of a Nation

Collectively, these wins underscore Warner Music Africa and Africori’s continued commitment to amplifying authentic African voices, championing genre-defining artistry, and shaping culture both locally and across the continent.

As the South African Music Awards mark another milestone year, Warner Music Africa and Africori stand proudly alongside their artists, honouring excellence, elevating African music, and ensuring its flowers continue to bloom.