Mzansi’s Hottest Stars Shine on Global Stage with 2025 BET Awards Nominations

Mzansi’s music scene is on fire — and the world is paying attention. South Africa’s top talents are set to represent the country with pride at the 2025 BET Awards, with several local stars bagging major international nods.

Leading the charge is 23-year-old global sensation Tyla, whose smash hit Water catapulted her into worldwide fame. From Billboard charts to luxury fashion runways, Tyla’s stardom knows no bounds. She’s nominated in the Best International Act category, flying the South African flag high at one of the world’s most prestigious celebrations of Black culture.

Sharing the spotlight is amapiano powerhouse Uncle Waffles, whose rise has been nothing short of meteoric. From spinning decks in Joburg’s hottest clubs to lighting up stages across Europe and the United States, Uncle Waffles is a force to be reckoned with. Her nomination reflects her unwavering consistency and electrifying artistry that’s taken the genre global.

Also making waves are breakout stars Maglera Doe Boy, Dlala Thukzin, and the fierce amapiano duo TxC. All three have scored nominations in the coveted Best New International Act category. These artists have been shaking up the scene with unique sounds and undeniable talent, now earning global recognition alongside fellow rising stars from across the world.

Monde Twala, Senior Vice President of Paramount Africa and lead at BET International, praised the nominees and the broader African music scene for its creativity and cultural power.

“The 2025 nominations reflect incredible creativity, influence, and impact of African artists who are shaping culture and pushing boundaries,” said Twala. “From Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, Tems, Tyla, Odeal, Shallipopi, Maglera Doe Boy, Black Sherif, and Uncle Waffles — these talents represent the diversity and heartbeat of a new generation and the global resonance of our sounds.”

Twala also extended congratulations to nominees from Brazil, the UK, and France, emphasizing BET’s ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse voices across continents.

As the countdown to the BET Awards begins, excitement is building back home in South Africa. These nominations are not just wins for individual artists — they are milestones for the entire South African music industry, proving that the country’s sound is global, fresh, and here to stay.