Basadi in Music Awards 2025 Set to Celebrate Women Powering South Africa’s Entertainment Industry

The Basadi in Music Awards are back and set to shine brighter than ever, placing a well-deserved spotlight on the women shaping South Africa’s music and entertainment scenes. Scheduled for August 2, the highly anticipated ceremony will honour female excellence across a wide range of disciplines – from music and broadcasting to journalism, choreography, styling, and production.

Founded by media powerhouse Hloni Modise-Matau, the awards have become a key platform for recognising not just chart-topping artists, but also the many behind-the-scenes contributors whose work drives culture forward. This year’s nominees reflect the dynamic growth and diversity of South Africa’s creative industry. Leading the pack is amapiano breakout star Zee Nxumalo, who has secured four nominations, including Amapiano Artist of the Year, Sofnfree Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year for her viral hit “Ngisakuthanda.” Her rapid rise and genre-defining sound position her as a standout contender.

Multi-talented Relebogile Mabotja is another prominent name, earning nods in three major categories: Entertainment TV Producer of the Year, Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year, and Podcaster of the Year. Her career, which spans broadcasting, acting, music, and production, has long exemplified versatility and impact. Dance icon Kamo Mphela is also in the running with nominations for Dance Artist of the Year, Sofnfree Artist of the Year, and Amapiano Artist of the Year, further cementing her influence in a genre that continues to dominate global airwaves.

True to its mission, the Basadi in Music Awards extends beyond performers to recognise those shaping the entertainment ecosystem. The Entertainment Journalist of the Year category features respected names such as Joy Mphande (TimesLIVE), Keitumetse Maako (News24), Nokuthula Zwane (News24), Mbali Mbatha, and Mapule Pule. These journalists have played a key role in documenting and amplifying South African music stories. “This nomination signifies that my work has been recognised and valued by industry professionals,” said Mphande. “It motivates me to continue producing high-quality content.”

Likewise, stylists, choreographers, and producers are given their due credit. The Styled Artist of the Year category includes fashion-forward talents like Faith K, Moozlie, Tee Fermenso, and Anele Zondo (Ney the Bae). In Choreographer of the Year, the list includes Bontle Modiselle and Delta the Leo – both celebrated for fusing dance with storytelling.

The awards also celebrate a wide spectrum of musical genres, acknowledging the richness of South Africa’s sonic identity. Gospel is well represented with powerhouse voices like Xolly Mncwango, Sneziey, and Nontokozo Mkhize, while the Traditional Artist of the Year category features artists like Esther Mphahlele, Phumla Music, and Miss Hillary. Hip hop, reggae, jazz, and pop are not left behind, with entries from Nadia Nakai, Gigi Lamayne, Lani M, Jamie Lee Sexton, and Gabi Motuba reflecting the genre diversity at the heart of SA music culture.

The Basadi in Music Awards are more than an awards show—they are a recognition of impact, innovation, and representation. They provide a space where women in every role — artist, producer, stylist, writer, presenter, and manager — are not only seen but celebrated. “This isn’t just about who’s on the mic. It’s about the voices behind the scenes who keep our culture moving,” said founder Hloni Modise-Matau.

With nominations that span experience levels — from seasoned icons to fresh newcomers like Liema Pantsi, Mega Snowflake, and Noni Muji — the awards also serve as a platform to spotlight emerging talent ready to leave a mark. As the industry counts down to August 2, the excitement surrounding the Basadi in Music Awards continues to build. It’s not just about trophies — it’s about legacy, visibility, and the power of women telling South Africa’s cultural story on their own terms.

Whether through a hit song, a bold fashion moment, a viral dance routine, or an impactful article, these women are not only shaping entertainment — they are shaping history.