SAMAs 2021 date announced

The event will kick off with a red carpet segment on SABC 1’s The Real Goboza show at 7.30pm. The organisers say the SAMAs will be a high-energy virtual affair with electrifying performances from some of the nominees and segments featuring the finest talent in South Africa.

“We are delighted that the SAMAs have returned to SABC 1 and we promise a show befitting the calibre of musicians nominated this year,” RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi said. “Against all odds and the challenges of the COVID-19 lockdown, we have managed to curate a memorable one-night extravaganza experience that will be entertaining and keep our loyal audiences on the edge of their seats.”

More than 40 awards will be presented on the night, including the newly unveiled Best Amapiano Album, Best Gqom Album and Best Kwaito Album accolades, with the public voting for the Artist of the Year Award for the first time. Other categories voted for by the public include Record of the Year and Music Video of the Year.

The top five competitive categories – Album of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Newcomer of the Year and Duo/Group of the Year ­– are expected to attract the most interest from viewers.

“While the identity of the hosts is still a closely guarded secret, there is no doubt that they will add their star power and vitalise the proceedings to keep the show a thrill-a-minute and pacey production,” the SAMAs said. “The presenters who will be handing out the trophies are a cross section of entertainers, celebrities, radio personalities and icons of the nation.”

The awards ceremony will begin at 8pm CAT.