Yvonne Chaka Chaka to Honour Unsung Heroes at BVSM Awards 2025

Legendary singer Yvonne Chaka Chaka will once again celebrate the often-overlooked talents behind South African music with the biennial Backing Vocalists and Session Musicians (BVSM) Awards. The fifth edition of the awards will take place on October 26, recognising the contributions of session musicians, backing vocalists, and industry stalwarts who shape the country’s sound.

This year, Bruce Sebitlo of Brothers of Peace will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award, while Shumi Diseko, Thembi Kubheka, and Tiny Mbuli will also be honoured for their exceptional work. Record label executive Phil Hollis will be presented with a Special Award for his contributions to the industry. A Posthumous Honour will recognise the late Phumzile Ntuli, a renowned vocalist who collaborated with artists including Mango Groove, Letta Mbulu, Caiphus Semenya, and Yvonne Chaka Chaka herself.

Chaka Chaka emphasises the importance of the awards in giving recognition to the artists behind the scenes. “These are the voices you’ll hear on albums by Johnny Clegg, Ray Phiri, or Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens, yet they were only ever known as session musicians or backing vocalists,” she says. She first noticed the challenges faced by session musicians in 1988, when many would camp outside recording studios hoping to contribute to a session. Most were paid minimal amounts and had no protection or recognition for their work.

The BVSM Awards began as a vision in 2009, but without funding, Chaka Chaka initially used her own money to make it happen. In 2014, with support from Kgosientso Ramokgopa, then mayor of Tshwane, the awards officially launched, and the first ceremony took place in 2015. Early honourees included Mandisa Dlanga, Stella Khumalo, Faith Kekana, Marilyn Nokwe, and Themba Mokoena.

This year’s nominees reflect a broad spectrum of talent. For Best Male Vocalist, Reuben Malgas, Sabata Masoka, and Mfanelo Ntlama have been recognised, while the Best Female Vocalist category includes Nelisiwe Kunene, Maboni Gabela, and Nomfundo Sambo. The Digital Session Musician category acknowledges DJ Fisherman, Faxa Dube, and Thasman, while gospel nominees include Buhle Nhlangulela, Muzie B, and Moo Mosa. Jazz Vocalist nominations feature Mahlatse Maphosa, Vuyo Tshuma, and Mimi Mtshali.

Emerging talent is also celebrated, with Rookie Vocalist nominations for Nvcho, Makhanj, and Thatohatsi, and Rookie Instrumentalist nods for Moscow on Keyz, Sipho Magudulela, and Xolani Guitars. The awards honour achievements from 2005 to 2010 while giving up-and-coming artists their moment in the spotlight.

Through the BVSM Awards, Yvonne Chaka Chaka continues her mission to recognise the unsung heroes of South African music, highlighting the vital role backing vocalists, session musicians, and industry contributors play in shaping the country’s sound.