The 31st South African Music Awards unfolded like a symphony written in fire and gold, a night where sound became story and excellence took centre stage. SAMA31 did not merely reward music – it crowned moments, movements and masters. The event was live on SABC1 and simulcast on SABC Plus on 14 December 2025, at a glittering ceremony held at Gallagher Estate.
On a night thick with triumph and historic first Mthandeki SK for Gucci feat. Mawhoo claimed both the coveted Record of the Year, and the Music Video of the Year, and Goldmax thundered home Album of the Year, sealing his place in the canon. Towering above them all was the incomparable Thandiswa Mazwai, who dominated the ceremony with regal authority, emerging as the most decorated artist of the night. Her album Sankofa proved both compass and crown, earning Best Engineered Album, Best African Adult Contemporary Album, Best Produced Album, and Female Artist of the Year – a masterclass in artistic intention and ancestral return.
Close on her heels, Black Motion reminded the nation of the power of unity and groove, walking away with Best Collaboration and Duo or Group of the Year. In the heartland of tradition, Khuzani stood tall, claiming Best Maskandi Album for Angidlali Nezingane, while Sjava’s Isibuko (Deluxe) captured Best Afro Pop Album, its introspective depth resonating far beyond the stage. The late Solomon Majafela Molokoane, better known as Solly Moholo, was honoured posthumously with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Nontokozo Mkhize was crowned Best Newcomer of the Year.
The dance floors belonged to Dlala Thukzin, crowned Best Dance Album, while amapiano maestro Kelvin Momo earned Best Amapiano Album for the soul-stirring Ntsako. Hip hop found its champion in 25K, whose Loyal To The Plug: The Life & Times of Don Kilograms secured Hip Hop Album of the Year. Crossing borders and oceans, Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr claimed the Rest of Africa Award, affirming South Africa’s place within a vibrant continental rhythm. In jazz, artistry met endurance as Peter Auret’s Hope Dies Last was honoured with Best Jazz Album.
Beyond the trophies, the SAMA31 stage burned bright with unforgettable performances. Zee Nxumalo ignited the night with a show-stopping opening that set the pulse racing, while Kusasa and Kaylow delivered mesmerising sets that had the audience swaying, singing and surrendering to the music.
“There were a lot of winners and surprises as SAMA31 dropped, and it’s been a memorable hybrid event that will go into the history books,” said Unati Gwija, SAMA Spokesperson. “History was made, legends were born, and the South African music scene is still reeling. The legends have been cemented, and those crafting their own legacies have left us speechless. A proud moment indeed, as our very own stars shone brighter than ever.”
Revellers arrived dressed to the nines, their elegance echoing the night’s theme, “Flowers For Those Who Keep Our Nation Singing” a heartfelt call to appreciation and presence. It was a reminder to give our artists their flowers now, to honour the musicians, producers, composers and collaborators who keep South Africa’s soundtrack alive, transforming struggle into song and turning rhythm into resilience.
“With the 31st edition dusted and artists adorned, the SAMAs have once again solidified their throne as South Africa’s music night to remember,” Gwija added. “The cream of the crop rose to the top, and we couldn’t be more obsessed. A huge shout-out to our talented artists who brought the house down with jaw-dropping performances and show-stopping wins. To our esteemed judges, thank you for your expertise and discerning taste. And to our incredible sponsors – your support is the rhythm that keeps the music playing. We salute you.”
With powerhouse partners including the Motsepe Foundation, Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA), Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO), YouTube, and Gauteng Provincial Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, GAC Motor and media partner SABC. SAMA31 stood tall – not just as an awards ceremony, but as a living archive of South African sound.
As the final notes faded and the lights dimmed, one truth rang clear: this was not just a night of awards – it was a night where South African music remembered itself, reclaimed itself, and rose, resplendent, into history. INFO SEND SUPPLIED
