Basadi In Music Awards 2026 Nominees Highlight Africa’s Leading Female Talent Across Music and Media

The nominees for the Basadi In Music Awards 2026 were officially announced online on 18 June, revealing a strong and diverse lineup of artists, media personalities and industry professionals from across Africa. The awards continue to shine a spotlight on women who are shaping the entertainment landscape through music, broadcasting, styling and creative production. This year’s announcement has drawn wide attention due to the inclusion of major continental stars alongside rising talent. Nigerian singer Ayra Starr features prominently among the nominees, adding an international dimension to an already competitive list. South African heavyweights such as Tyla, DBN Gogo, Kamo Mphela, MaWhoo, Nkosazana Daughter and Zee Nxumalo also secured key nominations across multiple categories.

One of the most closely watched categories this year is Artist of the Year, which brings together some of the most influential female voices in African music. Ayra Starr from Nigeria stands alongside South Africa’s Tyla, MaWhoo, Nkosazana Daughter and Zee Nxumalo, as well as Kharishma, Mmatema and Shandesh. This category reflects a broad mix of genres and styles, from Afro pop and Amapiano to gospel and contemporary fusion sounds. Each nominee has built a strong following through consistent releases, streaming success and live performances. The competition highlights how African female artists continue to dominate both local and international charts. It also shows the growing influence of cross-border recognition in shaping modern African music careers.

The Amapiano Artist of the Year category reflects the continued global rise of the genre, with a strong lineup of nominees. DBN Gogo, Kamo Mphela, MaWhoo, Nkosazana Daughter and Zee Nxumalo lead the category alongside Nobuhle, Thatohatsi and Kharishma. Amapiano has become one of South Africa’s most exported sounds, and these artists have played a major role in its expansion. Their music regularly dominates clubs, streaming platforms and social media trends. The category highlights both established hitmakers and emerging voices who are shaping the next phase of the genre. It also underscores the importance of female artists in driving Amapiano’s international success.

In the Afro Pop Artist of the Year category, the nominees include Kelly Khumalo for “Nyamezela,” Aya Msani for “Sondela,” and Lesotho’s Maleh for “Khotso Le Lesedi.” Nonny Muji, Pretty Masompisi and Phumla Music also feature in this category. Afro pop continues to evolve as a genre that blends traditional African sounds with modern production styles. These nominees represent different regional influences and musical interpretations. Their work reflects personal storytelling, cultural pride and emotional expression. The category showcases how Afro pop remains a powerful platform for female artists across the continent.

Collaboration remains a strong theme in this year’s awards, with the Best Female Feature of the Year category recognising standout joint performances. Notable nominations include “Siyabonga” by Kabza De Small featuring Nontokozo Mkhize and Mthunzi, as well as “Lawuleka” featuring Zawadi Yamungu. Other featured artists include Tracy, Thatohatsi, Nia Pearl and Boohle across various collaborative tracks. These collaborations highlight the strength of female voices within larger musical projects. They also reflect how teamwork continues to drive innovation and success in African music. The category celebrates the ability of artists to blend styles and reach wider audiences together.

The awards also recognise fashion and visual presentation through the Best Styled Artist of the Year category. Nominees include DJ Lamiez, DJ Zinhle, Nia Pearl, Uncle Waffles, Zawadi Yamungu and Zee Nxumalo. Style has become an important part of artist branding, especially in the digital era where visuals play a major role in audience engagement. These artists are known not only for their music but also for their strong visual identities. Their influence extends into fashion trends, red carpet appearances and social media aesthetics. The category highlights how image and music now work closely together in shaping public perception.

Dance music continues to be strongly represented with the Dance Music Artist of the Year category featuring Babes Wodumo, DJ Zinhle and Liema Pantsi, Kharishma, Shandesh and Uncle Waffles. These artists have contributed to the global recognition of South African dance and club music. Their work often dominates festival stages and online dance challenges. The category reflects the energy and creativity driving the dance music scene across Africa. It also shows how female DJs and performers are gaining greater visibility in a traditionally male-dominated space.

The DJ of the Year category includes DBN Gogo, DJ Lesa, Kasi Duchaz, Kele Megano, LKG and Uncle Waffles. These nominees represent some of the most influential figures in club culture and live performance. Their sets are known for shaping music trends and introducing new sounds to audiences. The category reflects the growing respect for DJs as key drivers of music discovery and entertainment culture. It also highlights the international reach of South African DJs, many of whom perform on global stages.

Gospel music remains a strong pillar in the awards, with nominees including Ada Ehi from Nigeria for “Maberumo (This Is Morning),” Futhi Mhlongo, HLE, Mmatema and Musa Yende. These artists are recognised for their powerful vocal performances and inspirational messages. Gospel music continues to play a major role in African spiritual and cultural life. The category celebrates both established and emerging voices in the genre. It also shows the diversity of styles within contemporary gospel music.

Beyond music, the Basadi In Music Awards also recognise excellence in media, styling and entertainment production. Categories such as Artist Manager of the Year, Entertainment Journalist of the Year, Radio Presenter of the Year and TV Producer of the Year highlight the broader creative industry. Professionals from across Africa, including Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and South Africa, are represented. This wide selection reflects the interconnected nature of the entertainment ecosystem. It also acknowledges the behind-the-scenes work that supports the success of artists and productions.

The 2026 Basadi In Music Awards nominations present a powerful snapshot of female excellence across Africa’s entertainment industry. From chart-topping musicians to influential media figures, the list reflects both established success and rising talent. The diversity of categories shows how women continue to shape music, fashion, broadcasting and production at every level. With strong representation across multiple countries and genres, this year’s awards highlight the growing unity of Africa’s creative industries. The ceremony promises to be a major celebration of talent, achievement and cultural impact across the continent.