Amid recent controversies and media scrutiny, Kelly Khumalo emerged victorious at the 2023 Basadi In Music Awards, receiving the prestigious ‘Afro Pop Artist of the Year‘ award.
2023 Basadi In Music Awards: Kelly Khumalo, Qwabe Twins and more win big
The event celebrated the achievements of women in the entertainment industry and showcased a night of talent and recognition.
The glittering event unfolded at the Joburg Theatre in Johannesburg, where the red carpet was rolled out to honour women in the music industry.
The Basadi In Music Awards marked its second edition and aimed to highlight and celebrate the contributions of women across various musical genres.
The Basadi In Music Awards holds the distinction of being the only awards ceremony in South Africa exclusively dedicated to women in the music industry.
The ceremony’s atmosphere was electrified with captivating performances that resonated with the audience. Opening acts by Andile Gaelesiwe, Khanyo Maphumulo, Tshedi Mholo, Winnie Khumalo, and Tamara Dey, along with a spirited presence on stage, set the tone for the evening.
Despite initial entry difficulties, the performances successfully engaged attendees and created a vibrant atmosphere.
Notably, media personality Unathi Nkayi took the reins as the event’s host, delivering a memorable performance that seamlessly guided the audience through the proceedings.
Unathi’s natural charisma and captivating stage presence contributed to the overall success of the evening, keeping attendees captivated and engaged.
Here is the full list of 2023 Basadi In Music Awards winners:
- Afro Pop Artist of the Year – Kelly Khumalo — ‘Akathintwa’
- Sofnfree Amapiano Artist of the Year – Khanyisa Jaceni ft. Sir Trill, Marcus MC, Tycoon & Ben Da Prince — ‘Gyjima’
- Artist of the Year – Lwah Ndlunkulu
- Dance Artist of the Year – Nuzu Deep — ‘Come Find Me’
- DJ of the Year – Lady Amar
- Duo/Collaboration of the Year – Qwabe Twins — ‘Sobonana’
- Nando’s Emerging Artist of the Year – Noluthando Ngema
- Entertainment Journalist of the Year – Masego Seemela — Sowetan Smag
- Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year – Khutso Theledi — The Break Away (Metro FM)
- Entertainment Radio Producer of the Year – Phila Tyekana — The Touchdown (Metro FM)
- Entertainment TV Producer of the Year – Philisa Bidi — Huge Music (Chanel O)
- Gospel Artist of the Year – Ntokozo Mbambo — ‘Ngcwele Nkosi’
- Hip Hop Artist of the Year – Nadia Nakai ft. Lucasraps — ‘Not The Same’
- Jazz Artist of the Year – Thesis ZA — ‘Chosi’
- Music TV Presenter of the Year – Ntombee Mzolo — Yash’ Ingoma’
- Music Video of the Year – Ney The Bae ft. Given Zulu — ‘Ingwe’
- Newcomer of the Year – Group Chat — ‘Mama’
- Pop Artist of the Year – Holly Rey — ‘Stripped’
- Reggae Artist of the Year – Empress Lilly — ‘One Day’
- Social Media Influencer of the Year – Tshidi Kekana Manganye
- Song of the Year – ‘Ithuba’ — Lwah Ndlunkulu ft. Siya Ntuli
- Samro Songwriter of the Year – Msaki
- Stylist of the Year – Odirile
- Traditional Artist of the Year – Dr Sophy — ‘Vamaseve wa Mina’
- CEO Mosadi In Business Achievement Award Recipients
- Nhlanhla Mafu for NN Vintage
- Thando Thabethe for Thabooty’s Underwear and Shapewear
- Boity for Be You By Boity and BT Signature
- Mosadi In Music In Africa Award Recipients
- Berita (Zimbabwe)
- Maleh (Lesotho)
- Mpho Sebina (Botswana)
- Sefa (Ghana)
- Lifetime Achievement Awards
- Angélique Kidjo
- Letta Mbulu
- PJ Powers