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Sun City - Songstress Shekhinah scored big at the SA Music Awards (Samas) on Saturday night.
Not only did her debut offering, Rose Gold, claim the album of the year gong, she also left with the female artist of the year and newcomer of the year awards.
Prince Kaybee walked away with the male artist of the year award, and Mafikizolo took home the best duo award.
One of the biggest losers this weekend turned out to be Kwesta – he was nominated in two categories that seemed to be a sure thing for him.
This year’s Samas were marred by disqualifications and the theft of art, but the show must go on.
And so it did. The red carpet was rolled out, but the event ended up being a rather underwhelming celebration of local music.
It was hosted by the dynamic trio of radio DJ Dineo Ranaka, comedian Mpho Popps and entertainer Somizi Mhlongo, who pleased the crowd with his volatile sense of humour.
Friday’s pre-ceremony was nothing special as the Super Bowl at Sun City was almost empty, and a string of awards had to be accepted by those who were presenting them, which suggests a level of disinterest in the Samas.
Rapper Shane Eagle performed his song Let It Flow, which is usually a highlight at any event, but there just wasn’t enough energy in the room to receive his efforts.
Chomee hit the stage more forcefully with her song Do Mo Squats, which had everybody dancing, including a very relaxed and not badly dressed Lady Zamar, who walked away with the best dance album of the year award.
POWER TO THE PEOPLE: Kwaito singer Chomee put on a great show at the 24th annual SA Music Awards at Sun City this weekend. (Photo: Gallo Images / Frennie Shivambu)
Mbongeni Ngema won a lifetime achievement award, as did Steve Kekana and Letona Spokes Hlatshwayo, and they were warmly cheered by the audience.
It was a merry night for gospel choir Joyous Celebration, which won four awards – bestselling album, bestselling DVD, bestselling digital artists and Capasso bestselling digital composer.
The Samro airplay of the year award was taken home by Sun-El for his summer hit Akanamali, which features Samthing Soweto.
Despite not winning anything, Kwesta appeared to be pleased that he was part of the show.
He shrugged off his loss and said he was concentrating on the third instalment of his Dakar album series.
Speaking about losing the best collaboration and best video awards, the personable, raspy-voiced rapper told City Press: “It would’ve been great to win, just ask any artist. As much as it doesn’t define why we make the music, a pat on the back would be great.”
Shane Eagle swooped in for the coveted hip-hop album of the year award.
He also mentioned that he was happy about the direction local music was taking.
“I love it right now; so many young people coming out – especially in hip-hop. I like the fact that people are making a living and can feed their family with this. The quality of music is good – I don’t like it all, but there is really good stuff. I appreciate that everyone is doing their utmost to get their message out.”
He delivered a performance that the crowd couldn’t get enough of on the big night.
Other performers included rapper Rouge, who won the best video of the year award, pipping Kwesta’s Spirit.
GOING DOWN: Chomee graces the audience with her live performance at the SAMA's on Friday night. (Photo: Mpumelelo Buthelezi)
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