BIMAs 2023: Angélique Kidjo, Letta Mbulu and PJ Powers to receive Lifetime Achievement awards

28 Jul 2023 - 11:32

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African musicians and social activists Angélique Kidjo (Benin), Letta Mbulu (South Africa) and PJ Powers (South Africa) will be honoured with Lifetime Achievement awards at the 2023 Basadi in Music Awards (BIMAs).

Angelique Kidjo, Letta Mbulu and PJ Powers.

Taking place at the Joburg Theatre on 12 August, the BIMAs will celebrate exceptional achievements by women in the music industry. This year, the organisers have expanded the awards categories to include women beyond South Africa’s borders.

“I am very honoured to be receiving a Basadi in Music Award from South Africa,” Kidjo, a five-time Grammy Award winner, said. “South Africa has a special place in my heart since I first heard about Miriam Makeba when I was young. She was a role model and then a mentor. It is important to celebrate women in music so that many young singers can be inspired to pursue their dream.”

Mbulu said she was humbled to be recognised at the BIMAs, adding that she would “deeply cherish this award bestowed upon me. My fellow ladies, let’s keep breaking barriers together. I love you all. God bless.”

PJ Powers said: “I am truly overwhelmed with gratitude to be chosen as a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 Basadi in Music Awards. It is not only a celebration of my journey but a celebration of all the inspiring women who have walked this musical journey alongside me and all the fans who have embraced my music. It is a phenomenal reminder of the power of music to unite and uplift, and I hope that we women in music will continue to harmonise our voices and pave the way for the next generation of female artists with strength and solidarity.”

BIMAs CEO Hloni Modise Matau praised this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipients for embodying the spirit of the awards.

“These exceptional individuals have not only shattered barriers but have also made lasting impact through their artistry, activism and relentless pursuit of excellence,” she said. “Beyond their music, they have been active social change and advocacy agents. We recognise the impact these trailblazers have had and present these awards in honour of their contributions, in celebration of their legacies, and to inspire the next generation of women in music.”

Tickets to the 2023 BIMAs awards are available here. View all the nominees here.