SAMAs 2021 unveil stellar line-up

The performances were pre-recorded at a studio in Johannesburg, and will be broadcast during the event on SABC 1 at 8pm CAT. The ceremony will kick off with a red carpet gala on the channel’s The Real Goboza show at 7.30pm.

“I wish to commend the team that worked tirelessly putting together the SAMA27 virtual show, our sponsors and partners,” RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi said. “It remained a moving target from the start until the end, but we soldiered on. Even under the stifling Level 4 lockdown regulations, the show went on; against all odds, we made it.

“I invite South Africans from all walks of life to come together, and for two hours forget about the challenges we face as a nation and the world. Let’s celebrate our culture and the musicians who have worked so hard to keep us entertained and inspired during these difficult and unpredictable times. A hearty congratulations to the winners in advance.”

The awards will be hosted by actress Bontle Moloi and actor Lawrence Maleka, and will be presented by local radio and TV personalities DJ Speedsta, Lamiez Holworthy, LTK and DJ Sabby as well as podcasters MacG and Sol Phenduka.

More than 40 awards will be presented at the 2021 SAMAs, including the newly unveiled Best Amapiano Album, Best Gqom Album and Best Kwaito Album accolades. For the first time, the public will vote for the Artist of the Year Award. Other categories voted for by the public include Record of the Year and Music Video of the Year.