SAMAs announce lifetime honourees 

This category recognises artists who have made outstanding contributions to the South African music industry and have fostered its development, upliftment and advancement over a minimum of two decades.

“These giants resemble master architects meticulously crafting the blueprint of artistry and song, towering over the industry as a beacon of inspiration,” SAMAs said. “Their attention to detail and genius serves as a design guide and foundation for generations to come as they construct their own masterpieces through song.”

This year, the SAMAs celebrate the lifetime achievements of four remarkable artists, each having left an indelible mark on the South African music landscape. The 2023 Lifetime Achievement award recipients are:

Mandoza (posthumous)

Mandoza, born Mduduzi Thembinkosi Edmund Tshabalala in 1978, was a charismatic kwaito star who enthralled audiences with boastful albums like Nkalakatha, Godoba, Tornado, Champion and Phunyuka Bamphethe. He co-founded the kwaito group Chiskop in the 90s, and his 1999 album, Uzoyithola Kanjani, became a pivotal moment in Kwaito history. Mandoza’s anthem, ‘Nkalakatha’, released in 2000, remains an enduring crossover hit as seen in South Africa’s Rugby World Cup triumph.

Beyond his music, Mandoza was known for his contributions to the kwaito genre, addressing social issues and inspiring the youth to steer clear of crime and drugs. He continues to inspire even after his untimely passing in 2015.

Pops Mohamed

Pops Mohamed, a multi-instrumentalist, jazz musician and producer hailing from Benoni, Gauteng, embarked on a career deeply rooted in music from a young age. Known as the ‘Minister of Music’, he masterfully played a wide array of instruments, from African mouth bow to the guitar, kora, and thumb piano.

Pops integrated various musical styles, from kwela to pop and soul, making him a versatile and innovative artist. His dedication to preserving traditional sounds while infusing them with modern elements has made him a global ambassador for South African music.

Gloria Bosman (posthumous)

Gloria Bosman was an acclaimed South African jazz vocalist, composer, and teacher who challenged stereotypes about female vocalists. Born and raised in Soweto, she pursued her passion for music and soon gained recognition as a performer. Bosman’s stage presence was marked by simplicity and a focus on vocal power, timing and the command of material.

She composed many of her songs and used her extended vocal technique to bring new textures to her music. Her contributions to the South African jazz scene were pioneering and inspirational. Her passing in March 2023 was a profound loss to the music industry.

Ihhashi Elimhlophe

Ihhashi Elimhlophe, the brainchild of Bheki Ngcobo, is a legendary figure in South African maskandi music. Hailing from a small village in KwaZulu-Natal, Ngcobo ventured to Johannesburg in 1976 in search of opportunities in the music industry.

He began his career as a bass guitarist with the iconic Soul Brothers and soon became the lead singer for their junior group, Imitshotshovu.

His unique journey led to the name Ihhashi Elimhlophe, meaning the White Horse. Armed with his rare 14-string guitar, he produced a series of successful albums totalling 28 to date. Ihhashi Elimhlophe’s music embodies the essence of South African culture and bridges the gap between genres and generations.

SAMAs are the country's most prestigious music event, celebrating the best in South African music. The awards recognise the exceptional contributions of artists, producers, and industry professionals to the vibrant South African music landscape.

RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi who congratulated the recipients said: “We are thrilled to honour the recipients of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards at the 29th SAMAs. These awards symbolise a celebration of excellence and a tribute to these artists' remarkable contributions to our music industry. With great excitement and pride, we present these awards to truly deserving recipients, recognising their enduring impact and global recognition.”