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SAMA32 returns to Sun City

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The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) has announced the nominees for SAMA32, igniting the countdown to one of the most prestigious celebrations of musical excellence on the continent. Across 25 fiercely contested categories, this year’s nominees reflect the heartbeat of a nation in song — a vibrant tapestry of voices, sounds, stories and cultural expressions that continue to shape South Africa’s musical landscape.

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On 15 August 2026, the spotlight will return to the legendary Sun City Superbowl in North West for the SAMA32 Homecoming Edition. The venue, etched into the collective memory of South African entertainment, will once again become the epicentre of the music industry as artists, creators, fans and industry leaders gather under its iconic lights. The coveted Top Five categories remain under wraps for now, with their reveal scheduled for the coming weeks to keep the suspense alive.

The move back to North West is both symbolic and celebratory, marking a reunion between the SAMAs and one of South Africa’s most beloved entertainment destinations — a space where countless milestones and unforgettable performances have taken place. As the awards return to this historic stage, they do so with renewed energy, fresh ambition and a future-facing vision, promising a showcase where artistry meets innovation and tradition embraces technology.

RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi describes this year’s nominees as “a breathtaking symphony of South African sound”, noting that they represent far more than outstanding recordings. They embody dreams realised, barriers broken and creative journeys that continue to inspire audiences at home and abroad.

The SAMA32 list is a meeting point between generations, where established legends stand alongside fearless new voices. Amapiano innovators, Motswako artists, jazz virtuosos, gospel powerhouses, Afro-pop stars, maskandi storytellers, hip-hop visionaries and more collectively demonstrate the extraordinary depth and diversity of South African talent.

Sibisi emphasises that the country is witnessing a golden age of creativity in which genres intersect, audiences expand and South African music continues to command global attention. SAMA32, he says, is “bigger, bolder and more representative of the richness of our musical identity than ever before.”

Less Noise. More Music.

Beyond the ceremony itself, the SAMAs remain an annual love letter to music and to the people who create it. Through the theme Less Noise. More Music., RiSA is reaffirming its commitment to centring artists and their work in the conversation. A hybrid awards format extends the SAMA experience beyond the venue, amplifying performances and stories across broadcast, digital and social platforms.

With the nominees now announced, anticipation is building across social media, radio, streaming platforms and entertainment news, as fans rally behind their favourites and artists prepare for music’s biggest night. SAMA32 is supported by the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), SA Tourism, RiSA Audio Visual (RAV), SAMPRA, SAMRO, CAPASSO and others, with the SABC as official media partner.

Sibisi also extended appreciation to the judging panel for their expertise and integrity throughout the nomination process, noting their vital role in recognising excellence and nurturing South Africa’s musical heritage. “Congratulations to all the nominees,” he said. “Your music has moved the nation, and your moment has arrived.”

Highlights from the nominee list

The 32nd Annual South African Music Awards nominee list spans 25 categories and showcases a wide cross-section of the industry, from adult contemporary and jazz to amapiano, hip-hop, dance, traditional music and more. A few category highlights include:

Best Amapiano Album with nominees such as Babalwa M (Acquiesce), Kabza De Small (Bab’Motha), De Mthuda (Mthuthuzeli) and Kelvin Momo (N’wana Wa Mutsonga and Thato Ya Modimo).
Best Hip Hop Album featuring projects by Danya Devs (Bayede), FLVME (BLVCK & WHiTE), the late Riky Rick (Boss Zonke Forever), Nasty C (Free) and MashBeatz (THE SECRET FREQUENCY).
Best Jazz Album recognising works by Paras “Sibalukhulu” Dlamini (Ingoma Busuku), Mandisi Dyantyis (Intlambululo: Ukuhlambulula), Temba Ncetani (INTLUNGU. INTLUPHEKO. IMBILINI), Lumanyano Mzi (Ithemba Elitsha – A New Hope) and Billy Monama (The Y-Factor Project).
Best Afro Pop Album with nominations for Lwah Ndlunkulu (Amaciko), CiCi (Busisiwe 2.0), Sjava (Inkanyezi 2.0 – Live), Nomfundo Moh (Out The Box) and Samthing Soweto (Touch is a Move – Good Morning).

The full list also includes categories such as Best Adult Contemporary Album, Best African Adult Contemporary Album, Best Alternative Album, Best Gqom Album, Best R&B/Soul Album, Best Dance Album, Best Traditional Faith Music Album, Best Traditional Music Album, Remix of the Year and the Rest of Africa Award, which recognises artists from Ghana and Nigeria including Gyakie, Black Sherif, Olamide, Wizkid, Asake and Tiwa Savage.

The South African Music Awards continue to celebrate excellence, innovation and achievement across the recording industry, while recognising the artists and creators who shape the nation’s cultural identity and global influence.