The 31st South African Music Awards (SAMA31) lit up the stage on 14 December 2025 at Gallagher Estate, bringing together artistry, culture and celebration under one roof. Broadcast live on SABC1 and streamed across digital platforms, this year’s ceremony reaffirmed the SAMAs’ ongoing mission: to honour the artists who keep South African music vibrant, impactful and deeply rooted in community and heritage.
A Night of Milestones and Multiple Wins
SAMA31 was defined by artists whose work resonated deeply across the industry, earning them more than one moment on the stage and cementing their impact on South African music.
Leading the night was Thandiswa Mazwai, whose album Sankofa marked a historic achievement. She walked away with four awards, recognising not only her artistry but the technical and creative excellence behind the project. Mazwai was honoured as Female Artist of the Year, while Sankofa claimed Best African Adult Contemporary Album, Best Produced Album, and Best Engineered Album. The wins celebrated a body of work praised for its emotional depth, cultural richness and sonic precision, while reaffirming her enduring influence on the country’s musical landscape.
Another standout was Goldmax, whose album Play At Your Own Risk earned three awards on the night. The project secured Album of the Year, while Goldmax himself was named Male Artist of the Year and took home Best Gqom Album, reflecting the album’s dominance and its role in shaping contemporary dance music culture.
Two projects also claimed double honours, underscoring their wide-reaching impact.
“Gucci” by Mthandeni SK featuring MaWhoo was recognised as both Record of the Year and Music Video of the Year, celebrating its powerful blend of sound and visual storytelling.
Meanwhile, “Takala” by Black Motion and Afrikan Roots featuring DJ Buckz and MÖRDA earned Best Duo or Group of the Year as well as Best Collaboration, highlighting the strength of partnership and shared creative vision.
Beyond the multi-award winners, SAMA31 honoured a diverse range of artists and genres, reflecting the depth and vitality of South African music.
