Grandmaster Ready D Honoured with Icon Award at 2025 Urban Music Awards
In a night that celebrated two decades of musical excellence and cultural evolution, Grandmaster Ready D — a true pioneer of South African hip hop — was awarded the Urban Music Awards (UMA) Icon 2025 Award. The prestigious event took place at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria, marking the 20th anniversary of the UMAs and paying homage to the legends who have shaped the country’s urban music landscape.
Born Deon Daniels, Ready D is widely regarded as a cultural trailblazer and community champion. From revolutionising the local hip hop scene to mentoring youth and promoting creative expression across platforms, his impact has been far-reaching and enduring.
Speaking to IOL Entertainment following his award, Ready D expressed heartfelt gratitude:
“To be recognised in this way is not just about me — it’s about the people, the culture, and the mission that has carried me through the years. This award is for everyone who’s been part of this journey. I want to sincerely thank Mr Quentin Bailey, Reebok South Africa, and Casio South Africa for their incredible support in getting me to the awards ceremony. Your belief made this moment possible.”
A Career That Shaped Generations
Ready D’s legacy was built through his foundational role in iconic groups such as Prophets of Da City, The Beatbangaz, and Brasse Vannie Kaap. Over the years, he has shared stages with international legends like Public Enemy, The Fugees, and Grandmaster Flash, firmly establishing himself as a key figure in both South African and global hip hop culture.
Yet his contributions extend far beyond music. He has become a respected voice in television, motorsport, and community development, using his influence to uplift marginalised voices and support youth empowerment initiatives.
Music With a Mission
Receiving the Icon Award is not only a personal milestone but also a moment to spotlight the work Ready D continues to do through GCAP — a non-profit organisation he co-founded.
“This is also a powerful moment to shine a light on the work we do at GCAP, where we use music as an educational tool to uplift and inspire the youth we serve,” he shared. “This award gives us another platform to drive awareness and continue building resilient, creative, and empowered communities.”
A Star-Studded Celebration
The night was rich with celebration and reverence, as fellow icons including Letta Mbulu, Boom Shaka, Zola, and ProVerb joined in honouring Ready D’s legacy. The ceremony also recognised a new wave of artists, showcasing the evolving sound of South Africa’s urban music scene.
The 2025 Urban Music Awards were broadcast globally via VooVix TV Productions, reaching audiences in over 15 countries and attracting more than 27 million viewers across digital platforms. This global reach underscored the growing international appetite for South African music and cultural storytelling.
A Legacy That Inspires
Ready D’s UMA Icon Award is more than a career accolade — it is a testament to a life dedicated to artistry, activism, and African excellence. With every beat, performance, and act of mentorship, he continues to inspire future generations to find power in their voices and purpose in their craft.
