RiSA has announced the 31st SAMAs nominees. Image: The South African Music Awards shared via X @TheSAMAs.
(The Post News)– On Friday, August 29, the 31st annual South African Music Awards (SAMA) nominees were announced. The announcement was made by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) via a livestream.
RiSA is a trade group that represents the common interests of South African record labels and music sound recording producers. In addition to hosting the annual SAMAs, RiSA also certifies album and single sales, publishes the official South African music charts, and oversees International Standard Recording Codes (ISRC).
The SAMAs are an annual event and one of the most prestigious celebrations in the country’s entertainment industry. RiSA emphasized that the awards are not only about winning trophies but also about honoring artists who shape the nation’s musical identity.
RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi stated that the awards stand for legacy, impact, and storytelling through music. The SAMAs recognize the artistry that influences culture and inspires generations. For this year’s edition, fans can expect an incredible lineup of artists who have dominated the charts and pushed creative boundaries. With 25 competitive categories, the event highlights the diversity and richness of South African music.
Among the categories revealed are Best Afro Pop Album, Best Jazz Album, and Best Collaboration Album, which always generate significant excitement. These categories often spotlight breakthrough acts and seasoned legends who continue to evolve their sound. Sibisi reiterated that the 31st SAMAs aim to showcase the best talent and reward innovation within the industry.
25 Categories and Hybrid Ceremony for the 31st SAMAs
This year’s SAMAs will feature 25 carefully curated categories, reflecting the country’s vibrant music scene. Genres such as Afro Pop, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Traditional Music will all receive recognition. The announcement ceremony highlighted how the SAMAs celebrate creativity, resilience, and authenticity among artists. Fans across the nation have already started predicting who will walk away with top honors in November.
The five biggest categories, which include Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Artist of the Year, will be unveiled next month. RiSA plans to keep fans engaged through strategic updates and social media interactions.
Meanwhile, according to Sibisi, SAMA 31 will adopt a hybrid format this year, combining in-person attendance with virtual streaming. This approach ensures accessibility while maintaining the event’s glamour and prestige.
The ceremony’s hybrid nature reflects how the music industry has adapted to technological changes and audience demands. Fans who cannot attend physically will still experience the show online through live broadcasts. This innovative approach aligns with RiSA’s vision of making the 31st SAMAs inclusive for a global audience.
What to Expect from SAMA 31 in November
The 31st SAMAs promise to deliver an unforgettable celebration in November. Industry insiders suggest that fans should look forward to groundbreaking performances, unexpected collaborations, and moments that will trend across digital platforms. The awards have always been a platform where culture meets excellence, and this year will be no exception.
One of the most talked-about aspects is how the hybrid ceremony will revolutionize viewer experience. This format not only accommodates global streaming audiences but also offers interactive features such as real-time voting and behind-the-scenes access. Sibisi expressed confidence that SAMA 31 will set new benchmarks for how award shows engage with fans in a digital-first world.
While the full list of top five category nominees is yet to be revealed, the buzz surrounding them is already electrifying. Fans speculate on social media about who will dominate categories like Artist of the Year and Song of the Year. By maintaining suspense and gradually unveiling details, RiSA ensures the award ceremony remain the most anticipated music event of the year, keeping audiences hooked, fueling debates, and building a wave of excitement that highlights the significance of this prestigious celebration of South African musical talent and creativity across genres.
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