South African singer Tyla marked a major milestone at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32), making her debut at the prestigious ceremony while receiving the AfriPure International Achievement Award.
The global star became only the second artist, after DJ Black Coffee, to receive the international honour.
The SAMAs were held on Saturday, 15 August, at the Sun City Super Bowl in the North West, bringing together leading artists, producers and industry figures for an evening celebrating South Africa’s diverse musical talent.
The ceremony was hosted by rapper Cassper Nyovest and broadcaster Zanele Potelwa, with performances and major award wins highlighting the country’s thriving music scene.
KwaZulu-Natal-born gospel singer and songwriter HLE was among the evening’s biggest winners. She took home Album of the Year for The Ground We’re On, as well as Female Artist of the Year.
Mzukulu claimed Male Artist of the Year for Ng’funa Intozami and also won the Ukhozi FM Best Maskandi Album award.
Paras “Sibalukhulu” Dlamini was named Newcomer of the Year for Ingoma Busuku.
Several popular songs and collaborations were also recognised during the ceremony. Umafikizolo won Record of the Year for Uyoncengwa Unyoko, while Abantwana Bakho received the award for Best Collaboration.
DJ Maphorisa and Xduppy were recognised with the CAPASSO Most Streamed Song of the Year award for Ngomoya, from Abantwana Bakho.
Kabza De Small won Best Amapiano Album for Bab’Motha, while Makhadzi Entertainment took home Best Traditional Music Album for Sesi Ka Rose.
For Tyla, the night was particularly significant as she stepped onto the SAMA stage for the first time.
The 24-year-old Grammy-winning artist became emotional while accepting the international achievement award, describing the moment as one she had dreamed about since childhood.
“This is my first time at the SAMAs, and I just remember being a little girl dreaming of this day,” Tyla said.
She thanked South Africans for supporting her throughout her career and acknowledged the challenges of building an international career without a previous artist following the same path.
“There’s never been a ‘Tyla’ before me, and I don’t have a roadmap,” she said, adding that she was grateful to have South Africa behind her as she grew as both an artist and a woman in the global spotlight.
Tyla also spoke proudly about her South African roots, saying the country’s influence is reflected in the way she speaks and dances.
“South Africa runs through my veins,” she said.
She also credited a Bacardi performance in Pretoria to Water with playing an important role in changing the course of her career.
The ceremony also honoured veteran producer and DJ Oskido with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his longstanding contribution to South Africa’s music industry.
SAMA32 once again highlighted the depth and diversity of South African music, recognising established legends, rising talent and artists taking the country’s sound to audiences around the world.