South African Music Awards 2026 nominees to be announced on 25 June

The awards, themed the Homecoming Edition, will mark the return of the South African Music Awards to the North West Province, where the main ceremony is scheduled to take place on 15 August.

According to organisers, the nomination announcement will reveal the artists, albums, producers, composers and other music industry professionals shortlisted for this year’s awards based on work released during the eligibility period. The event will be accessible both in person and through digital platforms.

SAMA32 is being hosted through a partnership involving the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation; the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism; the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA); the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO); the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA); the Road Accident Fund (RAF); and South African Tourism.

In a statement attributed to SAMAs spokesperson Unathi Gwija, organisers said the return to the North West Province was intended to highlight the region’s cultural heritage and tourism offerings while celebrating achievements within the South African music industry.

“The Homecoming Edition represents more than an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of South African creativity, resilience and innovation. By returning to the North West Province, we are creating opportunities to showcase the region’s tourism attractions, cultural assets and economic potential, while honouring the remarkable achievements of our musicians,” the statement said.

The organisers added that the partnership aligns with broader efforts to use music and cultural events to support local economic development, tourism promotion, job creation and community participation.

The South African Music Awards remain one of the country’s leading music recognition platforms, honouring achievements across a wide range of genres while recognising the role of music in shaping South Africa’s cultural identity.

Further details regarding the nominees and the awards programme are expected to be released through official SAMAs platforms in the lead-up to the ceremony in August.