The 30th South African Music Awards (SAMAs) kicked off at the Gallagher Convention Centre on Saturday, and it was everything you’d expect from a milestone celebration of Mzansi’s best beats and melodies. SAMA30 wasn’t just about handing out trophies; it was about reliving the iconic moments that have defined South African music over the past three decades.
Here are the top five things you need to know about this milestone event.
1. Tyla steals the show—from a distance
Let’s face it: 2024 might as well be renamed “The Year of Tyla.” The Water hitmaker has been riding a wave of international success, and this weekend, she reminded us that she’s still got a homegrown edge.
Tyla, who was sadly overseas (probably making more magic), picked up not one, not two, but four awards, including Female Artist of the Year, Best Pop Album for her debut Tyla, and Newcomer of the Year. She also snagged the International Achievement award, because, well, she’s Tyla. Sharing her gratitude for the awards on social media, she said, “I honestly tried so hard to make it! I was even considering getting a blesser to fly me there on a private jet.”
Take a look at the full list of winners here.
2. The performances were a blast from the past
The SAMA30 stage delivered a night full of nostalgia and high-energy entertainment, featuring performances that honoured South Africa’s rich musical heritage and showcased the evolution of local sound. The night’s performances struck a perfect balance between celebrating past legends and highlighting present-day stars.
Gqom queen Babes Wodumo kicked off the performance lineup in style, electrifying the crowd with her iconic hit Wololo. The performance was a reminder of the cultural impact Gqom has had on the local and global music scenes.
In a memorable nod to the golden age of Kwaito, legends Arthur Mafokate, Trompies, and other pioneers of the genre took the stage for a thrilling medley. Their high-energy performance was a time capsule of the ’90s and early 2000s, when Kwaito music dominated the airwaves and dance floors across the country.
One of the night’s most emotional moments came during the tribute to the late Tsakani “TK” Mhinga, a beloved voice in the South African music scene. KB Motsilanyane performed a heartfelt rendition of TK’s hit How Do You Feel, that honoured TK’s legacy.
3. Oskido’s lifetime contribution honoured
The Chairperson’s Award went to Oskido, a true industry legend. In his acceptance speech, he emphasised the power of collaboration in shaping South African music. “I’m truly honoured and grateful for this recognition. This award is not just for me. It’s the work we’ve all done through collaboration,” he said.
Oskido’s influence spans genres and generations, and his award was a heartfelt reminder of the teamwork that keeps the local music scene thriving.
4. Priddy Ugly’s triumphant return
Right after his electrifying performance, Priddy Ugly was honoured with the Best Hip Hop Album award for his album Dust. This recognition was a delight to many fans, as the rapper announced last year that Dust would be his final album. However, the excitement of the evening may have reignited his passion for music, leading him to declare post-victory that “there’s definitely more music coming.”
5. Reflecting on 30 years of musical legacy
The 30th anniversary of the South African Music Awards was more than just a celebration of this year’s winners — it was a celebration of music, culture, and community that brought together industry icons, rising stars, and music lovers alike.
As the South African music scene continues to evolve, the event served as a powerful reminder of how far it has come while setting the stage for future generations to make their mark.
Here’s to the next 30 years!
